A long-rumored AirPods model, AirPods with cameras, seems to have been revealed by Apple — and it looks like an accident. In the latest beta for forthcoming Mac software, a video shows how to use Visual Intelligence, an existing Apple feature, using AirPods, which isn’t currently possible. And this new product could be about to launch. Here’s what we know.
AirPods With Cameras: The Giveaway Video
Apple is meticulous about protecting its products until they are announced, but sometimes something slips through the cracks. In updating Mac software, Apple may have inadvertently revealed more than it meant to as the video, spotted by MacRumors, shows Visual Intelligence in action, and the product itself.
“Apple is working on camera-equipped AirPods that appear to be nearly ready to launch, based on a video MacRumors found in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 release candidate,” it said.
It also showed a post on X from Aaron Perris, which embedded the video. “Here is your first look at AirPods with Cameras in action using Visual Intelligence. This video file came from macOS 26.7 RC,” Perris commented.
The video shows a man wearing what look very much like regular AirPods holding up a book and talking. You don’t hear his words, but there’s a voice-over. “With Visual Intelligence, your world becomes saveable. See something you like? Just ask me to save it for later,” it says.
It’s hard to imagine a clearer unveiling of the product, assuming it’s true, which is why it’s hard to believe Apple did this deliberately.
AirPods With Cameras: Visual Intelligence
All rumors for the new AirPods have suggested that they would have cameras emphatically not for taking photos or shooting video but to add an extra dimension in terms of what the earbuds can do.
Visual Intelligence is currently available on the iPhone, letting you identify the breed of dog in front of you, do reverse image lookups or get more details from the poster you’re looking at. The video focuses on saving what you’re looking at for later, but I suspect there will be more features.
AirPods With Cameras: Likely Release Date
There have been no heavy rumors that the new AirPods are imminent — until now. The fact that they are seen in the video indicates they’re pretty nearly ready, and suggests to me that the AirPods could be part of the big special event expected in September (read this for exactly when, and this for when the keynote will be announced).
Sometimes, Apple unveils AirPods by press release, as it did with the first AirPods Pro, but if they are ready in time, I believe AirPods with cameras will be announced at the keynote on Wednesday, Sept. 9 and go on sale on Friday, Sept. 18.
