Apple Eyes Late 2027 Launch for Camera-Equipped AirPods to Boost Siri's AI Capabilities

Apple is reportedly working on a new generation of AirPods, codenamed B798, which could feature integrated cameras and launch by late 2027. Unlike traditional cameras, these would serve as visual sensors for the AI assistant Siri, enabling it to process and understand the user's surroundings. This move aligns with Apple's broader "Visual Intelligence" strategy, aiming to expand AI capabilities into wearable devices.

One potential application highlighted by Bloomberg involves using the camera to identify ingredients, allowing Siri to suggest recipes based on what the user is looking at. The new AirPods are expected to retain a similar design to current AirPods Pro but will include a camera on the stem and an external indicator light to notify others when data is being transmitted to the cloud. The launch timeline, however, remains subject to development progress, with potential delays from the initially planned 2026 release.

This camera-equipped AirPods release is anticipated to occur around the same time as Apple's next-generation foldable iPhone, codenamed V78, and a special 20th-anniversary iPhone model. The anniversary iPhone is rumored to feature a minimalist bezel design and curved glass extending to the device's sides, powered by the next-generation A21 chip. Apple is also reportedly developing smart glasses and a pendant-style camera AI device, indicating a significant push into AI-driven hardware.