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Tech & Science
Apple is reportedly nearing the final development stages of new AirPods featuring integrated cameras and AI-driven contextual features.
New AirPods equipped with embedded cameras and artificial intelligence capabilities are reportedly in advanced testing at Apple, though the tech giant has not officially confirmed the project. The device has entered the design verification testing (DVT) phase, one of the last steps before mass production begins, according to Bloomberg, citing informed sources.
During DVT, product components are assembled and evaluated as a complete unit to ensure appearance, feel, and functionality meet expectations. The earbuds currently feature near-final designs and capabilities, the report indicates.
The integrated cameras are not intended for photography or traditional video recording. Instead, they are designed to function as "eyes" for Siri, capturing low-resolution visual information from the surrounding environment. Apple is using these cameras to enable contextual AI features, the report says.
Users may eventually ask questions about objects or scenes around them. For example, the smart assistant could identify food ingredients and suggest recipes, or provide location-based guidance using nearby landmarks. Apple is also exploring reminder features that leverage the environmental awareness captured by the earbud cameras.
In terms of design, the new AirPods are expected to resemble the AirPods Pro 3, with slightly longer stems to accommodate the camera. To address privacy concerns, Apple is reportedly adding a small LED indicator that lights up when visual data is being transmitted, similar to the indicator found on Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
A veteran journalist noted that the device may be introduced as part of Apple's broader AI strategy. The company is also said to be working on other AI-powered devices, including smart glasses and connected smart home products.
