Infrared cameras could transform Apple's premium earbuds into AI-powered environmental sensors within months, according to multiple reports circulating this week.
Apple is reportedly developing a higher-end version of its recently launched AirPods Pro 3 equipped with built-in infrared cameras. Rather than replacing the current model, this configuration would sit above it as a premium option, mirroring Apple's approach with its standard and ANC versions of AirPods 4.
The cameras would use infrared sensors rather than traditional imaging technology, meaning they wouldn't capture photos or video. Instead, they're designed to help the earbuds understand their surroundings for contextual responses and gesture interactions.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported that
"external cameras and artificial intelligence [will help users] understand the outside world and provide information."
The feature represents Apple's broader push into ambient computing where devices interpret context without direct user input.
This camera-equipped model would arrive as part of a trio of new wearables Apple is developing around Siri integration. The other two include smart glasses and an AI pendant that can be clipped to clothing or worn like a necklace.
The timing comes just as Samsung prepares to unveil its Galaxy Buds 4 Pro next week at Galaxy Unpacked 2026 in San Francisco. While Samsung's earbuds will support select Galaxy AI features like Interpreter and Live Translate, those capabilities run on connected phones rather than the buds themselves.
Apple's move follows its recent deepening of AI ties with Google, with the next-generation Siri expected to use Google's systems for significant upgrades. The camera-equipped AirPods would position them as part of Apple's expanding AI hardware layer alongside products like the Apple Watch and future smart glasses.
Leaker Instant Digital suggested the new model might remove pressure-sensitive buttons from ear stems in favor of supporting hand gestures, though Apple could potentially support both features. This change would accommodate the growing number of functions relying on stem controls.
Current AirPods Pro 3 owners received a public beta firmware update this week with build number 8B5034f, which matches ongoing iOS 26.4 beta testing. The firmware likely prepares support for upcoming system features that could include camera functionality.
Amazon currently offers AirPods Pro 3 at $209.99 shipped, within $10 of holiday pricing from last year. The camera-equipped version would command a higher price point when it arrives later this year.
