Leaked Video Shows Apple’s Camera-Equipped AirPods Using Visual Intelligence

Apple has not confirmed the existence of such AirPods, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has previously reported that the devices are designed to take in “visual information in low resolution” and act as eyes for Apple’s AI features. According to Gurman, the AirPods could allow Siri to give turn-by-turn directions or answer questions about the wearer’s surroundings.

The AirPods shown in the video look like a slightly thicker version of the AirPods Pro 3, with longer stems to accommodate cameras. The clip only shows the back of the AirPods, and no LED lights are visible from that angle. TechRadar noted that the video’s production value is lower than typical Apple marketing material, suggesting it may be a placeholder or an internal video.

The camera-toting AirPods are expected to compete with AI gadgets like Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, though Apple is also reported to be working on its own smart glasses. However, the leaked clip has drawn skepticism and criticism, with some observers pointing to the negative public perception of camera-equipped wearables. TechRadar reported that smart glasses have faced bans in UK courts, restaurants, theaters, and Wetherspoons pubs, and are often called “pervert glasses.” The publication warned that AirPods with visible cameras could face similar backlash, even if the cameras are not designed to take photos or videos.

One X user was quoted as saying, “I hate to be that guy but… who’s asking for this?” TechRadar also suggested that Apple might be better off focusing on improving battery life instead of adding cameras.

Details about the camera-equipped AirPods remain scarce. If demo videos are already appearing in Apple’s OS betas, the new AirPods could launch alongside the improved version of Siri, which is expected to arrive in September with the next generation of iPhones.