Apple is reportedly in the final stages of testing a new version of AirPods designed as part of its broader AI hardware strategy.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman , the company is conducting late-stage testing on AirPods equipped with cameras that would allow Siri to understand a user’s surroundings better and provide AI-based assistance.
Gurman said testers inside Apple are currently using prototypes that have reached the DVT, or design validation testing, phase. This is considered the final major development stage before PVT (production validation testing), during which early mass-production units are created.
The report said each earbud would include a camera that would effectively act as “eyes” for Siri. The upcoming AirPods are expected to resemble the current AirPods Pro 3 design but may include longer stems to fit the camera modules.
The cameras are reportedly not intended for video recording. Instead, they would capture low-resolution visuals to help Siri understand the environment around the user.
According to the report, the feature could allow Siri to provide suggestions, reminders, or responses based on what the cameras detect. Examples include recommending recipes based on ingredients visible in a kitchen or offering turn-by-turn directions using nearby landmarks.
Apple is also reportedly exploring privacy measures for the device as concerns continue to grow around wearable products equipped with cameras.
Bloomberg reported that Apple is testing an LED indicator light that would activate when the AirPods cameras are in use, similar to the recording indicator used on Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. However, the report noted it remains unclear how effective the indicator would be since the AirPods sit inside the user’s ears.
The report added that the AirPods are part of a wider AI hardware push at Apple. Previous reports have pointed to Apple smart glasses, while Gurman said the company is also working on a pendant-style device with cameras.
Those devices are reportedly expected next year, while the AI-focused AirPods could launch later this year.
The report comes as Apple CEO Tim Cook prepares to hand leadership to current hardware chief John Ternus on September 1.
According to the report, Ternus is expected to oversee the launch of several upcoming products, including a rumored folding iPhone, a touchscreen MacBook, and Apple’s new AI-focused devices.
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