Apple is transforming its AirPods lineup into AI-powered health devices. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that the company is developing AirPods with embedded infrared cameras, advanced health sensors, and deeper Apple Intelligence integration for a 2026 launch.
The AirPods camera features will use tiny infrared sensors to gather environmental data and detect user gestures. These cameras will work alongside Apple Intelligence to enhance spatial audio and enable hands-free gesture control. They’ll also improve interaction between AirPods, iPhones, and Apple Vision Pro. The technology could recognize whether the AirPod is in your ear, detect hand waves for controls, and even assist with navigation.
Health monitoring is also getting a major boost. Both the upcoming AirPods Pro 4 and AirPods 5 will reportedly add in-ear temperature sensing to complement existing heart rate tracking. Experts consider ear temperature readings among the most accurate. This positions AirPods as serious competitors to smartwatches for discreet health monitoring in clinical or fitness settings.
Processing power is getting upgraded too. The new H3 chip aims to deliver improved audio quality and lower latency, helping AirPods respond faster to voice commands. This could enable features like live translation in future updates, similar to what Apple already offers through Apple Intelligence features in other devices.
This marks a major shift for AirPods. Apple is repositioning its earbuds as mobile AI companions that go beyond audio. They’ll deliver vision, gesture recognition, and contextual computing directly from your ear. Infrared cameras could unlock hands-free control and new accessibility features. Users would gain the ability to interact with devices through simple in-air gestures. Meanwhile, expanded health monitoring could let AirPods rival smartwatches without requiring wrist space.
The camera-equipped AirPods are expected in 2026, while health-focused models should arrive sooner.
