Apple AirPods With Cameras Set for Mass Production by 2026: Ming-Chi Kuo

Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has revealed that Apple plans to start mass-producing new AirPods with built-in infrared (IR) cameras by 2026. These IR cameras are expected to be similar to the Face ID sensors found in iPhones, Kuo mentioned in a post on Medium, as reported by 9to5Mac.

Foxconn to Provide Infrared Components

Foxconn, the well-known Taiwanese electronics manufacturer, is said to be the supplier for these new infrared components. The company is preparing to supply parts for about 10 million AirPods initially. Although it is not yet clear which AirPods model will first feature this technology, Kuo suggests that the AirPods Pro are the most likely candidate, given their current exclusive support for lossless audio with the Vision Pro.

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“Foxconn is the new product introduction (NPI) supplier for the IR camera, with an annual capacity plan of 18–20 million units, or about 10 million AirPods. Actual demand and orders will depend on market conditions,” Kuo wrote.

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The IR cameras on the new AirPods are designed to work with Apple Vision Pro and upcoming headsets, aiming to enhance spatial computing and audio experiences. These cameras can detect changes in the environment, allowing for a broader range of gestures for better user interaction. For example, if a user is watching a video with Apple Vision Pro and the new AirPods, turning their head to look in a specific direction can improve the sound from that direction, thereby enhancing the spatial audio experience.

“Apple’s planning for hardware, software, and services has always focused on strengthening the competitiveness of the ecosystem, and spatial computing is no exception. As the commercialization conditions for spatial computing mature in the future, Apple, which has a significant lead in this area, is expected to generate new and strong growth momentum,” Kuo further noted.

To recall, earlier in February, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg News reported that Apple is exploring several wearable form factor ideas, including AirPods equipped with cameras. The company is also investigating the development of smart glasses similar to Meta Ray-Bans, a smart ring, and future versions of the Apple Watch.