AirPods, apple, gadgets AirPods. Image: Unsplash
Apple is constantly developing new technologies that have revolutionized the world of wearables many times. A new rumor from the past few days is now causing excitement: According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the technology giant could integrate mini-cameras into the AriPods in the future. But what exactly would this mean for the users and how realistic is the concept?
In his latest "Power On" newsletter, Mark Gurman mentions that Apple would consider installing cameras in the AirPods. However, the small devices would not be intended for classic photos or videos, but would rather serve as infrared sensors.
An explanation for this was already introduced by the well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo in June 2024, when he first heard about the rumors. He said that the cameras could resemble the technology of Face ID in iPhones. The goal here would be above all an improved spatial audio experience, in combination with Apple's AR glasses, the Vision Pro.
Cameras in AirPods? What does this look like in practice? Ming-Chi Kuo explained the idea in a post at the time: "For example, if a user is watching a video with the Vision Pro and wearing the new AirPods and turning their head in a certain direction, the sound source can be highlighted in that direction to improve the spatial audio/computing experience."
Another exciting feature could be the introduction of an "in-air gesture control". This technology would allow users to control their AirPods with hand movements without touching another device. This means that you can control music playback, take calls, or even interact with other Apple devices with simple gestures - all in the air without relying on physical buttons.
However, Kuo sees these developments not only as part of an extended user experience for audio and video, but as a potential key to an even closer integration of the AirPods with other Apple products such as the Apple Watch or the iPhone. The cameras could also pass on data to these devices and continuously improve the user experience.
If the speculations are true, the new AirPods with infrared cameras could theoretically be launched in 2026 or 2027. However, the question remains whether the users are really dependent on the additional functionality or whether it is a tech gimmick. But if Apple finds the right application for the mini cameras, they could revolutionize the way users interact with their Apple devices.
Via GQ Germany
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