You’ll have to wait until 2027 for those leaked AirPods with built-in cameras

Apple's AI-powered AirPods with built-in cameras, originally expected to be released in 2026, are now set to launch in 2027 according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The leaked video from a developer version of macOS showcased the earbuds working with Apple's Visual Intelligence feature, which uses the earbuds' cameras to provide visual context to Siri and other AI functions.

However, Apple is working on two versions of the camera-equipped AirPods, one based on the AirPods Pro 3 and another on a newer AirPods Pro generation with cameras and AI. Despite Apple's efforts to address privacy concerns, the idea of earbuds silently observing their wearer remains a contentious issue. The camera-equipped AirPods are not expected to function like traditional cameras, with low-resolution sensors designed to scan the surrounding environment.

These earbuds will likely be introduced alongside other products, including Apple's first smart glasses, a camera-equipped wearable pendant, a foldable iPhone, and an AI-focused smart home display.