Apple’s Camera-Equipped AirPods Could Still Launch This September
Apple’s AirPods lineup has been unusually quiet lately, especially when it comes to the long-rumored model featuring built-in cameras. While recent rumors suggested that Apple may have paused or delayed the project, newer information points to a different story: the company may still be preparing a camera-equipped AirPods model for launch sooner than expected.
According to details shared by Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter, Apple has been working on multiple versions of AirPods with camera-related technology. One version, reportedly known internally as B798, was previously connected to the idea of a camera-based AirPods design. This model was believed to be targeting a launch in the near future, but more recent claims suggested it may have been delayed until 2027.
However, that may not apply to every version Apple is developing. Another model, identified as B790, is also said to be in the works and could be much further along. This version reportedly appeared in code tied to the second iOS 27 developer beta, suggesting that Apple is actively preparing software support for the device.
If the B790 model remains on schedule, Apple could introduce the new AirPods as early as September, potentially alongside the next-generation iPhone lineup. That would make the earbuds one of the most surprising hardware announcements of the year.
The idea of AirPods with cameras may sound unusual at first, but Apple is likely not planning to turn them into traditional photography devices. Instead, the cameras could be used for advanced spatial awareness, AI-powered features, gesture recognition, or improved integration with Apple Vision Pro and future augmented reality products. Apple has been investing heavily in wearable technology, and camera-equipped earbuds could become part of a larger ecosystem focused on contextual computing.
There is still some uncertainty around which AirPods model will arrive first. The previously discussed B798 version may have been the device affected by the reported delay, while the B790 version could be a more affordable or simplified model that remains on track for release this year.
If Apple does unveil AirPods with cameras in September, it could mark one of the biggest changes to the AirPods lineup since the introduction of noise cancellation and spatial audio. The addition of camera-based technology would push the earbuds beyond audio and into a new category of smart wearable devices.
For now, Apple has not confirmed any details, but the appearance of related references in iOS development code suggests that the company is still actively working on the concept. With September approaching, the next Apple event could reveal whether camera-equipped AirPods are ready for the spotlight or still waiting for a later debut.
