Apple Still Plans To Bring AirPods To Mini Cameras

Apple may add a mini camera to the AirPods (photo: x @sale_news_)

JAKARTA - Apple continues to explore the possibility of adding mini cameras to the upcoming generation of AirPods. This was revealed according to a recent report from Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman.

In a report released this week, Gurman revealed that the Cupertino company is considering embedding an out-looking camera on the AirPods.

This camera serves to collect data that artificial intelligence (AI) will use to improve user experience.

Interestingly, the camera in question is actually an infrared sensor, not an ordinary camera. This information is in line with the prediction of Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who in its blog in June 2024 said that Apple plans to mass-produce AirPods with infrared sensors by 2026.

Kuo explained that the infrared sensor on AirPods will be similar to the Face ID recipient on the iPhone. This technology is believed to be able to improve the spatial audio experience when used with Vision Pro, Apple's mixed reality headset.

"For example, when users watch videos with Vision Pro while using these new AirPods, if they turn to a specific direction, the sound source in that direction will be more emphasized to improve the spatial audio experience," wrote Kuo.

In addition, infrared cameras on AirPods also have the potential to present a "air movement control" feature, which allows users to interact with devices using only hand movements.

If the mass production schedule in 2026 remains as planned, AirPods with this infrared camera is likely to be released in 2026 or 2027.

Apple has not provided official confirmation regarding the development of this device, but this innovation further strengthens the company's strategy in presenting smarter and more integrated devices with its ecosystem.