Apple AirPods With Camera for Better Spatial Audio Capabilities Said to Launch Soon: Ming-Chi Kuo

Apple is working on new AirPods that will come equipped with cameras. These new AirPods will feature infrared radiation (IR) cameras, similar to those integrated with the iPhone's Face ID receiver. The Cupertino-based tech giant's new True Wireless Stereo (TWS) is said to offer an enhanced spatial audio experience when used with the Apple Vision Pro, the company's mixed reality headset. Last month at WWDC, the company unveiled new features for AirPods, including gesture-based controls for interacting with Siri, head-tracking capabilities while gaming, and improved sound during voice calls.

Apple said it would release camera-equipped AirPods

In a Medium post, TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said: “My latest supply chain survey indicates that Apple plans to mass-produce new AirPods with camera modules by 2026, with an IR camera similar to the iPhone's Face ID receiver (not the transmitter).” Notably, a previous report from February also hinted at AirPods with advanced cameras and sensors.

The new AirPods functionality is being added to enhance the spatial audio experience when paired with the Vision Pro and any future Apple headphones the company releases. It is said that if a user is watching a video in the mixed reality headset with the new headset and turns their head in a specific direction, they will hear louder or more emphasized audio from the sound source in that direction. The overall impact is said to be a more immersive experience.

According to the report, the AirPods' IR cameras will be able to detect environmental image changes. These will be able to detect when a Vision Pro user moves their head and the orientation of the video player changes in the augmented reality or virtual reality environment. Additionally, the headset is said to be able to offer in-air gestures to interact with the device as well.

Kuo claimed that Taiwan-based Foxconn is Apple's supplier for IR cameras. The supply chain giant plans to make 18 to 20 million units, which roughly translates to 10 million AirPods. However, these are forecast figures and final production would depend on market conditions.