Apple testing camera-enabled AirPods ahead of possible launch

Apple is preparing a new version of its AirPods that includes a small camera, according to a demonstration video discovered in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 release candidate. In the clip, a user holds a book up to the AirPods, allowing the camera to capture the title, while on-screen text explains that the feature, called Visual Intelligence, can save items the wearer points out.

The camera feed is intended to feed data to Visual Intelligence, enabling Siri to answer questions about the surrounding environment and log relevant information. The demo also warns that covering the AirPods, for example with hair, may reduce accuracy and trigger an alert.

The camera-equipped model, identified by the internal code B790, was previously referenced by Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, who suggested a launch could occur as early as September, potentially coinciding with Apple’s upcoming iPhone event where the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and a foldable iPhone Ultra are expected to be unveiled.

The macOS Tahoe 26.7 build contains multiple mentions of the B790 project alongside references to other unreleased Apple products.