According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple plans to begin mass production of “AirPods with camera modules” by 2026. These new AirPods will feature an infrared camera similar to Face ID on iPhone and iPad, and will integrate with Vision Pro and future Apple Vision headsets to enhance spatial audio and strengthen the spatial computing ecosystem. The IR camera could also enable in-air gesture control. Foxconn is the supplier for the IR camera, with an annual capacity plan of 18-20 million units. Apple is also exploring other wearable form factors, such as smart glasses and a smart ring.
Apple is expanding its Apple Diagnostics for Self Service Repair tool to 32 European countries, allowing users to troubleshoot issues and determine if their devices need repair. The tool currently supports iPhone, Mac, and Studio Display models. Apple also published a white paper highlighting its efforts to increase device longevity through software support and expanded repair options.
Why do we care?
Tactically, I appreciate more right to repair investment. But strategically, I want to highlight how AirPods with cameras is both a prediction I already made, but more importantly, are useful without the Vision Pro. Cameras that your phone can use to understand the area around you is a much more useful version of some of the technology we have seen lately – I’m looking at you, Humane pin – and I would expect to be a logical outcome of all the machine learning vision investments broadly.