Apple Rumored to Equip AirPods and Apple Watch with AI Cameras by 2027
Apple is reportedly planning to integrate tiny cameras into future AirPods and Apple Watch models by 2027, significantly enhancing their capabilities with Apple Intelligence. This ambitious move is poised to revolutionize how users interact with their devices, creating a more immersive and intelligent experience. But how will these tiny cameras actually work?
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, these cameras are expected to scan the environment, providing descriptions of objects, similar to the Visual Intelligence feature already available on newer iPhones. Apple is also exploring smart glasses, akin to Meta's Ray-Bans, incorporating cameras, microphones, and even more integrated AI, targeting a similar 2027 release.
The integration of cameras into wearables isn't just about capturing photos or videos. The true potential lies in the AI-driven contextual awareness they enable. Imagine your Apple Watch identifying landmarks, offering real-time translations, or providing step-by-step instructions based on what it sees.
Apple is reportedly developing a new chip, codenamed Nevis, specifically for the camera-equipped Apple Watch, while a chip codenamed Glennie will be incorporated into the AirPods. Bloomberg suggests that Apple aims to have those chips ready by around 2027. This chip is said to be based on those used in the Apple Watch, hinting at a shared ecosystem of AI features across these devices.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that these cameras might be infrared sensors, potentially enabling advanced "in-air gesture control." Imagine controlling your AirPods or Apple Watch with simple hand movements. Kuo anticipates mass production of these AirPods with infrared cameras as early as 2026, potentially leading to a launch in 2026 or 2027.
While these developments are grabbing headlines, it's worth noting that Apple is also actively working on other product updates. For example, tvOS 18.5 and macOS Sequoia 15.5 have recently been released, bringing incremental improvements to Apple TV and Mac devices, respectively.
Additionally, an acquisition by Apple hints at a potential upgrade to the Calendar app on future iOS versions. The company acquired Canadian startup Mayday Labs in April 2024, suggesting enhancements to the Calendar app are in development.
Furthermore, rumors suggest that Apple is considering price hikes for the iPhone 17 lineup, possibly justified by new features and design changes, rather than solely attributing them to tariffs. However, this could also create an opportunity for niche wearable to replace iPhone in the future, Eddy Cue said recently.
Looking further ahead, Apple might mark the 20th anniversary of the iPhone in 2027 with a radical redesign – a mostly glass, curved iPhone without any display cutouts. This innovative design would represent a significant leap from current models.
Will these AI-powered wearables become a game-changer, or is this just another step towards a future where technology seamlessly blends into our daily lives? What are your thoughts on Apple's plans to integrate cameras into AirPods and Apple Watch? Share your opinions in the comments below!
