Apple AirPods with IR camera sensor set for mass production in 2026: Report

Apple is reportedly developing new AirPods with built-in infrared (IR) camera sensor to enhance the spatial audio experience and bring support for hands-free gesture controls. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, these AirPods are expected to enter production by 2026.

In a post on the blogging platform Medium, Kuo detailed that future AirPods models will feature IR cameras akin to those currently used in iPhones for FaceID authentication. With this added hardware, the AirPods will be capable of detecting “environmental image changes,” enabling users to control the wireless earbuds through “in-air gestures.” Kuo also noted that Apple has already filed patents for this technology.