JAKARTA Apple is reportedly preparing a major update for the AirPods line, including the addition of infrared (IR) cameras to the 2026 model, as well as a lighter AirPods Max design update in 2027. This information comes from reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who reiterated previous predictions regarding the development of future generations of AirPods.
Kuo said that the new AirPods with the IR camera will enter the mass production phase in 2026. This camera is designed to support computer vision features, such as helping users navigate to a location or providing visual information to other Apple devices such as iPhone even though the phone is in the user's pocket.
This IR camera also has the potential to be part of Apple Intelligence's strategy, allowing AirPods to provide additional visual data that enrich AI capabilities in Apple's ecosystem.
In addition to the camera, rumors also say that the next generation of AirPods Pro can be equipped with a heart rate sensor thanks to the new H3 chip, similar to the features already available on Powerbeats Pro 2. In fact, the live translation feature is also expected to come along with the launch of iOS 19 this fall.
Meanwhile, updates to AirPods Max, Apple's premium over-ear headphones, are expected to come in 2027. This update is focused on reducing device weights, which currently stands at 384.8 grams or about 13.6 ounces major complaints from many users regarding the convenience of use in a long time.
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The mass production of the lighter version of AirPods Max is scheduled to begin in the same year, and is most likely released ahead of the 2027 holiday season.
Apple has previously added low-latency lossless audio support to the USB-C version of AirPods Max via an iOS 18.4 update and macOS 15.4. However, this feature can only be used via a USB-C to 3.5mm or USB-C cable connection to USB-C, while wireless audio is still lossy.
If all these predictions are proven true, then 2026 and 2027 will be an important year for the transformation of the AirPods line, with a major increase both in terms of features and design. AirPods are no longer just wireless earphones, but could be an important part of Apple's AI and augmented reality experiences in the future
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