AirPods have long been an audio product: music, calls, noise cancellation, comfort. The leak spotted in the iOS 27 beta 2 code tells a different story. Apple may be preparing a version of AirPods Pro equipped with visual sensors capable of feeding Siri and Apple’s Visual Intelligence.
The detail making noise comes from a product with the code name B790. The code reportedly refers to two images captured by cameras placed on either side of the head. Previous rumors also mentioned the name B798, which could point to several internal prototypes or variants. With Apple, this kind of ambiguity is hardly surprising.
Cameras that would not be used for filming
The word “camera” can quickly create unease, especially on a device as discreet as earbuds. Yet the idea would not be to turn AirPods into mini-cameras for taking photos or recording videos. The sensors would mainly be used to give Siri more context.
Apple already offers Visual Intelligence on iPhone. It can identify a place, recognize a plant, translate text, summarize a poster or create an event from a flyer. With AirPods, the gesture would become more natural: look at an object, ask Siri what it is, and get an answer without taking out the iPhone.
AirPods would no longer be just an audio extension of the iPhone. They would become a discreet interface between the user, the surrounding environment and Apple’s AI.
The real test will be Siri
On paper, the idea has potential. In real life, it depends on a less glamorous element: Siri will finally need to be reliable. A voice assistant that understands a request only half the time is already frustrating. An assistant that analyzes the environment and gives the wrong answer could become useless, or even embarrassing.
Apple will therefore have to find a difficult balance: sensors good enough to understand a scene, fast processing, decent battery life, acceptable design and solid privacy protections. AirPods will also need to remain comfortable. Adding more electronics inside the stems is not a small detail, especially for a product worn for hours.
The timeline still seems fluid. The latest rumors point more toward a launch delayed to fall 2027, possibly alongside an anniversary iPhone. Nothing is confirmed, but the presence of clues in iOS 27 at least shows that the software side is moving forward.
A more discreet bet than smart glasses
Apple is entering a space already occupied by smart glasses, especially Meta’s. But AirPods have a huge advantage: they are socially accepted. Nobody is surprised to see someone wearing earbuds. Glasses with a camera attract much more attention.
That is also what makes the topic sensitive. Visual sensors in earbuds raise privacy questions. Even if these cameras do not record in the traditional sense, they analyze what surrounds the user. Apple will have to explain when the sensors work, which data stays on the device, what goes to the cloud and how people nearby are informed.
My tech blogger take
In my view, this is the most intriguing direction for AirPods since active noise cancellation and hearing features. Not because “cameras in earbuds” sounds automatically appealing. Quite the opposite, actually: at first, it can even feel strange. But the idea reveals a strong direction: Apple wants to make its devices more contextual, more connected to the real world, and less dependent on the screen.
If Siri remains average, these AirPods will be an expensive gadget and hard to justify. If Siri becomes genuinely smart, they could mark a turning point. The iPhone would stay in the pocket, while AirPods would listen and observe just enough to respond. It is ambitious, slightly risky, but very Apple.
FAQ
Are AirPods Pro with cameras official?
No. Apple has not announced anything. The iOS 27 beta 2 leak only strengthens the rumors around a product reportedly in development.
Will these cameras take photos?
The available information points more toward sensors designed for visual analysis with Siri, not traditional photo or video use.
When could they launch?
Recent rumors suggest a delayed launch, possibly in fall 2027. The timeline remains uncertain.
What would be their main purpose?
Their role would be to allow Siri to understand what the user is looking at and respond without relying on the iPhone camera.
I'm Clémentine Pithon, and as a technology enthusiast, I write articles to guide you through the world of refurbished devices. My goal is simple: to help you make informed choices, understand the products, and get the most out of them every day. Tips, explanations, and practical advice are at the heart of my articles.
