- Integration of infrared sensors to recognize the environment and touchless manual gestures.
- Enhancing AI and Siri through Visual Intelligence to identify objects and places.
- Dramatic improvement of spatial audio and adaptive cancellation based on the device's vision.
- Expected launch in a high-end range, possibly under the name AirPods Ultra.
I'm sure you're amazed, but it's absolutely true: Apple is cooking up some AirPods with built-in camerasWe're not talking about a passing rumor that surfaced yesterday, but a project that has been circulating in tech circles for some time. While it might seem like an outlandish idea at first glance, when we analyze what these lenses would be used for, the product starts to make perfect sense.
Thanks to various leaks, we already have a pretty clear idea of what new features they'll bring, when they might arrive in stores, and how much they'll cost. Best of all, if things go according to plan, we won't have to wait long so that they become official and we can learn every detail of this device that promises to change the way we interact with technology.
What can we do today with the camera and AirPods?
To begin with, it is essential to clarify that currently There is no model Apple's AirPods don't have their own camera. They do have light and motion sensors that allow, for example, pausing the music as soon as you remove an earbud. However, the current AirPods can act as a bridge to control the iPhone's camera.
The most common way to achieve this is through Siri, although since the latest version of iOS 26 It is possible to use the 'pin' of the earphone as if it were a remote control. After configuring the device settings, a single or double tap activates the phone's camera. It's worth noting that this feature is only available for AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods Max 2.
In addition, the AirPods Pro 3 have arrived with improvements in computational audio and ultra-low noise microphonesalong with a wider range of ear tips (including size XXS) to ensure flawless sound while interacting with other camera apps.
The true purpose of cameras in headphones
If you're wondering whether they'll be useful for taking selfies or recording vlogs, the answer is probably no. Leaks indicate that, because strict privacy reasonsConventional photo and video capture will not be permitted. The objective is entirely different and far more ambitious, supported by the new and powerful H3 chip.
The key here is the implementation of infrared camerasSimilar to the Apple Vision Pro glasses, these sensors don't capture visual images, but rather function as depth and tracking sensors. This allows the headphones to have a kind of "ambient awareness" to react to what's happening around us.
Improvements to the sound experience and control
One of the most powerful features will be the evolution of adaptive audio. analyze the place where we areAirPods will be able to adjust volume and noise cancellation with pinpoint accuracy. If the device detects specific patterns in the scene, it can better decide when to let the sound of someone speaking through or when to block out external noise.
On the other hand, Apple has very advanced patents on the gesture controlForget about always having to touch the earpiece; thanks to infrared cameras, we could raise the volume by sliding our finger in the air or activate noise cancellation by making a fist. This technology would make interaction much smoother and more natural, although it's possible that both control systems could coexist.
The gateway to Artificial Intelligence
Apple wants AirPods to be the eyes and ears of the new Siri, integrating technologies such as visual intelligenceThese headphones could identify objects, read signs, or recognize places without us having to take our iPhones out of our pockets. Imagine walking through a city and asking Siri about the history of the building in front of you; the AirPods would see it and give you the answer instantly.
This project aims to transform headphones into an essential AI accessory, offering contextual indications and reminders based on what we're seeing in real time. Essentially, they would behave similarly to Meta's smart glasses, but integrated into a much more discreet and everyday format.
Release date and estimated price
Although it was initially thought that these cameras would arrive with the AirPods Pro 3, they were released in September 2025 without this technology. However, it is known that development has already been completed and that they will soon enter production. It is speculated that the official announcement will be in September, coinciding with the presentation of the iPhone 18 Pro, the highly anticipated foldable model and the Apple Watch Series 12.
As for the name, it's very likely they won't simply be called Pro, but that Apple will create a new category called AirPods UltraRegarding the cost, everything points to it being around... 299 EurosThis theory is based on the fact that the AirPods Pro 3 suspiciously dropped in price, leaving a gap in the high-end range that would fit perfectly with this new advanced model.
The arrival of this device marks the beginning of an era where spatial computing and AI merge into a wearable. With the ability to understand its surroundings, optimize spatial audio, and enable precise gesture control, Apple is transforming simple headphones into a smart assistance tool that promises to revolutionize our daily routine.
