Apple is reportedly planning to release AirPods with infrared cameras, which will work in conjunction with the Vision Pro headset to create a spatial audio experience that adapts to the user’s head movements. This rumor comes from reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who predicts that mass production of these IR-enabled AirPods will begin in 2026.

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The camera system in the AirPods is expected to be similar to the Face ID technology used in iPhones, capable of detecting head turns and potentially even hand gestures. This technology could enhance the spatial audio experience in virtual 3D environments and improve hand gesture recognition, which is currently available on the Vision Pro.

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• Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also reported on the development of AirPods with cameras in February.
• A cheaper Vision Pro model is rumored to be released in 2026, coinciding with the expected release of the IR-enabled AirPods.
• Apple is also expected to refresh its standard AirPods models, with the 4th-gen standard AirPods and AirPods Pro 3 rumored for release in the near future.
• iOS 16 introduced Personalized Spatial Audio, which uses iPhone-based 3D scanning to enhance the audio experience.

While Apple has not officially confirmed these rumors, the reports suggest that the company is investing in immersive audio technologies and hand gesture recognition, potentially leading to exciting innovations in the future.