Apple AirPods with Built-in Camera Set to Launch Next Year; No Major Upgrades Until 2026

 

Apple is rumored to refrain from introducing substantial updates to AirPods until 2026. Last year, the firm revamped its AirPods collection with the release of AirPods 4, which also included active noise cancellation (ANC) for the basic TWS earbuds. However, this year's tale may not be the same. Next year, the iPhone maker is expected to release a new device called AirPods, which will have an infrared camera.

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In a post on X (previously Twitter), TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed data regarding Apple's AirPods range future. They do not anticipate the business to make any'substantial' updates to the TWS earphones before 2026. Meanwhile, AirPods Max may be upgraded in the future years.

According to Kuo, Apple is creating a lighter version of the AirPods Max, which may enter mass production in 2027.

AirPods may not see significant updates until 2026 (aligning with my earlier prediction that IR camera-equipped AirPods would enter mass production in 2026). A lighter version of the AirPods Max is expected to enter mass production in 2027.

AirPods可能要到2026年才會有顯著更新…

— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) May 18, 2025

In addition to updates to existing goods, the Cupertino-based tech behemoth is expected to release a new product: AirPods with built-in IR cameras. According to Kuo, the rumored item might possibly go into full production next year. This confirms prior claims that the business was developing AirPods and Apple Watch variants with cameras that provide comparable capabilities to smart glasses.

The expert earlier stated that the infrared cameras may improve the auditory experience. With the capacity to detect ambient changes, the AirPods might support a wider range of movements. The TWS earphones' built-in camera is set to enable "in-air gesture" control. The gadget may also assist hand motions.