Apple Develops Camera-Equipped AirPods for Contextual AI Siri

Apple Inc. is developing camera-equipped earbuds, potentially branded as AirPods Ultra or AirPods Pro Ultra, designed to give Siri visual awareness. Rather than capturing high-quality photos or videos, these low-resolution sensors intend to power Visual Intelligence, allowing the AI assistant to identify landmarks or objects in real time for contextual reminders and walking directions.

Internal development involves two versions: a more advanced model codenamed B798 slated for 2027, and a second version, B790, which has progressed further. References to the B790 model have appeared in iOS 27 beta code, and the device may launch as early as September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 lineup and a rumored foldable iPhone Ultra. To address privacy concerns, the hardware includes a flashing LED indicator to signal when data is being sent to the cloud and slightly longer stems to house infrared sensors.

This project is part of a larger AI wearable strategy that includes a wearable pendant and smart glasses. However, reports indicate Apple may delay the release of smart glasses following privacy backlashes against similar products from other competitors. The new AirPods are expected to be priced above the $249 cost of the AirPods Pro 3.