AirPods Pro with cameras could arrive this year, new leak suggests

AirPods

• Next AirPods Pro may feature built-in infrared cameras for AI-based functions
• Apple may release camera-enabled AirPods Pro at a higher price than current models.
• No launch date yet; leaks hint at minor upgrade, not full redesign

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Apple may be planning another update to its premium earbuds lineup this year, and the biggest change being talked about is a surprising one. According to fresh leaks, the next version of AirPods Pro could come with built-in cameras.

The claim comes from a leaker who recently posted on X, backing up earlier reports that Apple is experimenting with infrared cameras inside AirPods. These are not regular cameras meant for photos or videos. Instead, they are expected to support new AI-based features that rely on understanding the user’s surroundings.

What makes this interesting is the timing. AirPods Pro were last updated fairly recently, and Apple usually waits around three years between major upgrades to its Pro models. This has led many to believe that Apple is not planning a full redesign just yet. Instead, the company may be working on a slightly upgraded version of the current model.

Reports suggest that the upcoming AirPods will look and feel almost the same as the existing AirPods Pro, with the infrared cameras being the main new addition. Because of that, Apple may choose to sell two versions side by side. The current AirPods Pro could continue at their usual price, while the camera-equipped version may cost more.

Some leaks have hinted at pricing staying the same, but that seems unlikely. The leaker behind the latest post does not have a strong history of predicting Apple prices. A more realistic scenario is Apple following its recent strategy with other AirPods models, offering a higher-priced option with an extra feature. In this case, the camera-enabled AirPods Pro could be priced higher than the standard version.

So what would these cameras actually do? The infrared sensors are expected to power visual intelligence features. This ties in with Apple’s growing focus on AI that can understand context, movement, and surroundings. Apple CEO Tim Cook has repeatedly spoken about visual intelligence as an important part of the company’s AI push, which makes this upgrade feel more believable.

As for when these AirPods might launch, there is no clear timeline yet. Apple usually introduces new AirPods alongside iPhones in the fall, but there is always a chance the company could surprise users with an earlier announcement.

For now, these details remain based on leaks and reports, but if they turn out to be true, AirPods Pro with cameras could mark a big shift in how Apple imagines wearable audio devices.