Next-Gen AirPods Could Feature a Built-in Camera: But Don’t Expect Big Upgrades Until 2026

Apple keeps on bringing new technologies, enhancing the overall user experience. But it seems the tech giant has no plans to update its AirPods till 2026. In a recent report, the tech giant is reported to not be refreshing its AirPods lineup, and hence, we would not be able to see any new or updated version of the already available AirPods 4.

Here’s Everything We Know About Apple’s Plan Regarding its AirPods:

Apple Airpods with Built-in Infrared (IR) Camera:

Apple seems to be in no plan of updating or bringing new version of the AirPods. As per X post (formerly Twitter) via TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will not bring any considerable update to its AirPods. Nevertheless, we could still witness a small, yet major update in the upcoming Airpods. The tech giant is in plans to introduce with a built-in infrared (IR) camera.

The Apple Airpods with a built-in infrared (IR) camera may enter for the mass production next year and it might offer the similar functionality like the smart glasses. This will not only enhance the audio experience, but will also be able to detect environmental changes. The purported device is expected to allow a large number of gestures. The said Apple Airpods with a built-in infrared (IR) camera is expected to enable a new feature called in-air gesture control and will also support hand movements.

AirPods may not see significant updates until 2026 (aligning with my earlier prediction that IR camera-equipped AirPods would enter mass production in 2026). A lighter version of the AirPods Max is expected to enter mass production in 2027.

AirPods可能要到2026年才會有顯著更新…

— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) May 18, 2025

Another essential feature that is reported to be equipped in the upcoming AirPods is the spatial audio experience that will be enhanced with the help of Apple’s Vision Pro spatial headset.

AirPods Max:

The analyst further suggest that we might not see any refreshed version of AirPods Max, but it could get update in the coming years, mostly in 2027. As per Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple might be preparing and developing a lighter version of the Apple Airpods Max. In addition, it could go for the mass production in 2027.

To recall, the company launched its AirPods 4 last year with Active Noise Cancellation.