This will allow the headphones and watches to recognize objects in real time, similar to the Visual Intelligence feature on the latest iPhones. The cameras will presumably be infrared, allowing them to be used for gesture control.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned Apple’s plans to begin mass production of such AirPods in 2026 back in June 2024. According to him, infrared cameras could become the basis for “air” control of devices by recognizing the user’s hand movements.

Apple is also working on smart glasses with cameras, microphones, and built-in AI, similar to the Ray-Ban Stories. They are also expected to be released in 2027 and will use processors similar to those in the Apple Watch, allowing for cross-functionality between the devices.

Source: macrumors