AirPods That “Understand” Their Surroundings
Apple’s strategy involves embedding visual intelligence directly into its products. Following the introduction of the Camera Control button on the iPhone 16—which allows not only photo taking but also the analysis and interpretation of visuals—Apple now aims to extend these capabilities to AirPods.
According to Mark Gurman, this future generation of AirPods could utilize infrared sensors to grasp external environments. The goal is to provide a more immersive and intuitive experience without needing to pull out an iPhone. Users could potentially ask Siri about their surroundings simply by wearing their AirPods (though this would also require a more intelligent Siri, so not likely before 2026…).
Apple is playing a long game with gradual integration. These “smart” AirPods could recognize objects and spaces around the user, offering relevant information through Siri or audio notifications. Some analysts believe this is a way to pave the path for its upcoming smart glasses slated for 2027, without requiring customers to drastically change their habits right now.
Enhanced Spatial Audio Experience
The new generation of AirPods will offer more than just visual analysis. Ming-Chi Kuo has also mentioned enhanced integration with the Vision Pro and future Apple headsets. Thanks to embedded sensors, the AirPods could enhance spatial audio: if you watch a video with Vision Pro and turn your head, the sound could automatically adjust to match the direction you’re looking.
Apple might even take it a step further by introducing air gesture control (refer to the numerous patents filed with the USPTO), a way to manage audio playback or calls simply with hand movements, without touching the earphones.
A Release, But… Not Until 2027
However, don’t expect these AirPods Pro to hit the market anytime soon (likely a fourth generation). According to Bloomberg, Apple does not plan to launch them before 2027, likely alongside its first smart glasses (another product for which the company is taking its time).