Apple’s newly launched AirPods Pro 3 have just arrived, but fresh rumours suggest that another, even more advanced pair of AirPods may debut as soon as next year, this time featuring built-in cameras. If true, it would mark Apple’s most ambitious expansion of its audio lineup yet, reflecting the company’s ongoing push to offer more specialised versions of its core products.
AirPods with Cameras?
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According to a recent leak, Apple is developing a new AirPods Pro model equipped with infrared (IR) cameras. These sensors could power AI-driven visual intelligence features, potentially enhancing interaction with Apple’s Vision lineup or improving spatial awareness and gesture control.
Notably, this new version reportedly won’t replace the AirPods Pro 3. Instead, it would serve as a higher-end model, consistent with Apple’s broader strategy of diversifying its product range rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.
Building on the AirPods 4 Strategy
Apple recently took a similar approach with the AirPods 4, which launched in two variants, one with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and one without, offering users multiple performance and pricing tiers.
The 2026 AirPods Lineup (Rumoured)
If these reports prove accurate, Apple’s 2026 AirPods family could include:
- AirPods Pro 3 with cameras (possibly branded as “AI AirPods”)
- AirPods Pro 3
- AirPods 4 with ANC
- AirPods 4
- AirPods Max
That would make for five distinct AirPods models available at the same time, the largest lineup in Apple’s history.
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A Broader Strategy for a Broader Audience
Apple’s steady shift away from its famously streamlined product grid once championed by Steve Jobs reflects its strategy to cater to a wider user base. Much like the iPhone lineup, which now spans several models and price points, Apple’s audio ecosystem is expanding to reach more consumers.
While concrete details about the camera-equipped AirPods Pro remain scarce, the concept points to a major evolution in Apple’s wearables, one that could merge sound, vision, and AI into a single, seamless experience.