Apple has historically spaced out its AirPods updates, typically waiting two or three years between releases. Recent reports hinting at an upcoming “AirPods Pro 4” refresh have sparked confusion, as it seems too soon for another update. However, Apple may have a different plan in mind.
Two years ago, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned that Apple was working on camera-equipped AirPods, potentially to be paired with the Vision Pro for enhanced gesture controls and related features. Building on Kuo’s insights, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has also forecasted the addition of cameras, suggesting they could serve as an alternative to smart glasses and other head-worn devices, rather than as mere enhancements.
Gurman believes that these cameras could power Apple Intelligence features such as object recognition, aligning with a similar feature expected on a future Apple Watch and smart glasses. The goal is to bring visual intelligence to more devices, enabling users to scan their surroundings and identify objects.
Beyond Sound: AirPods as a Visual AI Wearable
This innovation could revolutionize AirPods, expanding features like Live Translation to include written text, in addition to spoken words. It could also introduce a range of accessibility features that complement the AirPods Pro’s role as hearing aids. Visual intelligence might even identify speakers in crowded environments and isolate their voices using beamforming technology.
Gurman’s perspective slightly differs from Kuo’s, who suggests that the AirPods might incorporate infrared cameras for gesture recognition. This aligns with the Vision Pro concept, hinting at possible standalone usage with in-air gestures replacing traditional controls.
There is speculation about the release of both types of cameras, with some analysts and leakers leaning towards the likelihood of IR-equipped cameras arriving first, possibly as early as this year.
The AirPods Pro 3 Left Room for More
Rumors last year suggested that a camera-equipped version might feature in the AirPods Pro 3. However, the latest iteration of AirPods Pro focused on heart rate monitoring, improved ANC, and fit without significant technological advancements. This sets the stage for a successor or a higher-end model with the H3 chip, already in development according to Gurman.
Speculation persists about a camera-equipped release, with some sources now pointing to a 2026 launch. The question remains whether Apple would introduce the “AirPods Pro 4” only a year after the third-generation AirPods.
Filling the $300 Gap: The Case for ‘AirPods Ultra’
While a quick refresh seems unlikely, Apple might introduce a more premium “AirPods Ultra” variant alongside the AirPods Pro 3, bridging the pricing gap between AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. This new model could be priced at $349–$399, aligning with Apple’s product tier strategy.
It is anticipated that Apple will position these new AirPods as distinct from the AirPods Pro lineup, potentially under the name “AirPods Ultra.” The company’s focus on visual intelligence hints at a new era for AirPods, evolving them into standalone AI wearables.
[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]
