Apple Air Pods to Feature Built-in-Cameras
Infrared (IR) cameras may soon be integrated into Apple’s AirPods, which is an unexpected development for a product that is primarily meant to produce music. Nevertheless, improving spatial experiences is a strong motivation for this invention.
Spatial Audio
Reputable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that by 2026, Apple intends to mass-produce AirPods with infrared camera modules. These cameras, which resemble the Face ID feature on iPhones, are probably going to be made by Foxconn, a significant Apple supplier. In order to provide more immersive spatial audio experiences, IR cameras have been included in AirPods with the purpose of detecting changes in ambient pictures.
Kuo offers an intriguing illustration of how these infrared cameras might completely transform user interfaces. Imagine using the Vision Pro with AirPods to view a video. A more realistic and immersive experience may result from the sound source from a particular direction being more prominent when you tilt your head in that direction. The infrared cameras’ ability to track head movement would enable precise orientation-based audio output modifications.
Beyond Vision Pro
Although Vision Pro may be the primary target audience for these new capabilities, pure audio listening experiences may also benefit from these developments. Apple has made spatial audio a key selling feature for Apple Music by emphasising it consistently across all of its audio-related products. AirPods could provide even more accurate head movement tracking with IR cameras, improving the listening experience overall.
All New Features with IOS 18
With the release of iOS 18, Apple intends to add additional functions to AirPods, even in the absence of IR cameras. New head movements, including nodding or shaking the head to accept or reject a call, are to be expected. Additionally, owners of the newest AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max will be able to play games with personalised spatial audio with head tracking. When iOS 18 comes out of beta this autumn, these features will be publicly available.
The Future of Audio Technology
With the release of iOS 18, Apple intends to add additional functions to AirPods, even in the absence of IR cameras. New head movements, including nodding or shaking the head to accept or reject a call, are to be expected. Additionally, owners of the newest AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max will be able to play games with personalised spatial audio with head tracking. When iOS 18 comes out of beta this autumn, these features will be publicly available.