Apple is reportedly preparing to release AirPods equipped with cameras, according to leaked video footage and code. The footage, found in Apple's macOS 26.7 RC, shows a person wearing AirPods and discussing a book with Siri, accompanied by audio stating, "With Visual Intelligence, your world becomes savable. See something you like? Just ask me to save it for later."
Further evidence comes from code referencing a "Hair Detected" error, which would alert users if their hair obstructs the AirPods' camera. However, prior reports suggest these cameras will not be able to record photos or videos.
Instead, the cameras are reportedly intended to act as "eyes" for an upgraded Siri AI, set to launch in September with Apple's iOS 27. This would allow AirPods users to interact with Siri by looking at objects, such as a book or cooking ingredients, or for features like turn-by-turn walking directions.
The new AirPods are also reported to include an LED indicator that lights up when visual data is being shared to the cloud. The visibility of this light has been questioned due to the AirPods' small size.