New AirPods could add cameras, and some Apple fans aren't pleased

Apple could add cameras to your AirPods as soon as next month, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman . A first for its bestselling earbuds, the cameras could help power Artificial Intelligence (AI) features like next-generation Siri by understanding what's happening around you. For example, your AirPods could identify landmarks, translate signs in real time, describe objects for accessibility, or provide more relevant information based on your surroundings. Combined with AI, the sensors could make interactions feel more natural and hands-free. The camera-equipped AirPods could also eventually become a smarter companion for everyday tasks. However, sources claim these 'buds wouldn't take photos or videos like controversial Meta Ray-Ban glasses . These wearables have come under fire for unknowingly recording others, with experts saying cameras on glasses are "really irresponsible." However, despite this distinction, some people don't seem to be convinced about the rumour of cameras being fitted to the next iteration of the AirPods. One user wrote on Reddit: "Add this to the constantly growing list of 'Things consumers didn't ask for' just like all the extra 'tech' car companies are building with nowadays." Comment by u/NoBurnInBirney_SG from discussion in technology Another user said: "People will end up intentionally and unintentionally wearing active cameras into public restrooms, along other things. This is awful. Tech CEOs need to pull their heads out of their asses and stop trying to manufacture a legacy as a 'revolutionary.' This state of the economy in which executives are incentivized to boost stock value over all else is toxic in so many ways. How about just actually providing products and services that people want and are willing to pay for?" Comment by u/NoBurnInBirney_SG from discussion in technology Comment by u/NoBurnInBirney_SG from discussion in technology Comment by u/pdfu from discussion in apple The Californian tech firm has been rumoured to be developing camera-equipped earbuds for quite some time, with the whispers previously suggesting they wouldn't make an appearance until 2027. But it turns out the company has also been working on a second variant codenamed B790. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS You could be paying too much for Microsoft Word and Outlook, UK watchdog confirms Google previews new age-check tool for Android ahead of UK release within months Avoid Apple price increases — you can save on a new MacBook from Amazon Downloading apps for your Windows 11 PC? Beware these 70 dangerous dupes found on Google The Power On newsletter from Bloomberg has said: "For years, Apple has been working on the camera AirPods under the code name B798. This device was initially scheduled for release in 2026 before being postponed until 2027, I’ve reported. But Apple has also been developing another version under the code name B790 (Apple famously creates competing versions of the same product internally). "This B790 device also appears to be further along: References to the product have already shown up inside iOS 27 code, and it’s been on Apple’s internal road map for a debut as early as this year." When it comes to design, these new AirPods are also expected to look a bit different from what we're used to seeing. Rumours suggest the stems will be slightly longer than those on the current AirPods Pro, possibly to allow extra space for the camera hardware. There's also said to be a small LED light that switches on whenever the earbuds are sending data up to the cloud, giving you a visual cue about what's happening. Timing-wise, a September debut would lineup with Apple's expected iPhone launch event, rumoured for mid-September. However, there's still plenty we don't know. It's unclear how the codenamed AirPods will differ from one another, beyond the suggestion that the B798 is the more advanced of the pair. It's also uncertain whether both versions will ever make it into your hands — Apple is famous for developing products internally that never see the light of day. For now, Apple hasn't officially confirmed any of these plans, so everything remains based on industry reports. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter