Apple reportedly set to unveil AI-powered AirPods with built-in cameras this year

Rumors surrounding camera-equipped AirPods have gained fresh momentum, with reports suggesting that Apple has entered the final stages of development and could unveil the new device later this year.

The claim comes from Bloomberg journalist and well-known Apple analyst Mark Gurman.

In his Power On newsletter, Gurman said Apple is currently testing two prototypes of camera-equipped AirPods, codenamed B798 and B790. Information about the newer B790 model has recently surfaced.
According to Gurman, references to the B790 model were found in the beta code of Apple's upcoming iOS 27, indicating that development is well advanced.

If Apple follows its usual product launch schedule, the new AirPods could be announced alongside the iPhone 18 at the company's expected September launch event.

According to various reports, the device may be marketed as the AirPods Pro Ultra.

However, the built-in cameras are not expected to function like conventional cameras for taking photos or recording videos.

Instead, they are designed to analyze the user's surroundings and provide contextual information to Apple’s artificial intelligence system.

This would allow the AirPods to deliver environment-aware information, navigation, and real-time assistance, effectively enabling them to function as a wearable AI assistant.

Apple is not expected to discontinue its existing AirPods lineup after introducing the new model.

Consumers who primarily use AirPods for listening to music, making phone calls, or enjoying podcasts will still be able to purchase the current versions.

Despite growing speculation, Apple has not officially announced the camera-equipped AirPods.

As a result, the device's final design, feature set, branding, and release timeline remain unconfirmed, and further details will depend on an official announcement from the company.