Apple may soon launch AirPods Pro with cameras, this is what we know so far
Apple may launch its new AirPods Pro this year. AirPods Pro may have cameras.
Apple launched the AirPods Pro 3 along with the iPhone 17 lineup last year. Now, a new leak suggests that the company is planning an upgraded version with built-in cameras. The new model may be launched soon this year.
According to well-known Apple leaker, Kosutami, who uses the handle (@Kosutami_Ito) on X (formerly Twitter), “The next AirPods Pro may be seen near you. Available at the same price.” There are two aspects worth mentioning here. First and foremost is the anticipated update. The AirPods Pro are reported to have some type of camera, but not in the traditional sense. Apple may use the IR-based camera to power visual intelligence functions in the product, not just to take photos and videos.
The second aspect is pricing. The tipster says that the new AirPods could be priced the same as the current generation AirPods Pro 3. This seems highly unlikely unless Apple is planning to discontinue the existing model and replace it with a new one. But if that’s not the case, then the price of these reported AirPods Pro earphones with cameras could either be higher or even lower depending on the rest of the spec-sheet. Either way, we can’t say for sure yet.
Apple AirPods Pro with camera update: What we know so far
There is speculation that the cameras on the new upcoming AirPods Pro 3 models could better understand the user’s surroundings and enable new AI-powered features. The infrared sensor in the purported new model is expected to enable visual intelligence features, in line with Apple’s broader effort toward AI that understands context, movement, and surroundings. Apple CEO Tim Cook has repeatedly highlighted visual intelligence as an important part of the company’s AI roadmap, making this rumored upgrade seem more plausible.
While there’s no official word yet on launch timing, Apple usually unveils its new AirPods in the autumn along with the new iPhones, which is in September, though it may choose to change the timeline depending on its future roadmap and strategy.
Apple typically follows a roughly three-year cycle for major Pro model upgrades. This has led to speculation that a full redesign may not be imminent, with the company instead preparing minor updates to the existing model.
Apple’s existing AirPods Pro 3 come with the H2 chip, which offers 8 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation (ANC). It has IP57 rating for dust and water resistance. It has a built-in heart rate sensor to track health during workouts. The AirPods use USB-C and MagSafe for charging, with a built-in speaker for Apple’s built-in app Find My.
