Key Points
- Apple aims to launch AirPods with IR cameras by 2026.
- The 3D audio of the future will be better with the help of IR cameras.
- The latter will be compatible with the Apple Vision Pro VR headset.
- Foxconn is set to manufacture millions of AirPods having cameras.
In a game-changing move, Apple is said to be developing built-in cameras for its AirPods come 2026. This groundbreaking advancement, as predicted by reputable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, will take the experience of 3-D spatial sound quality up a notch, particularly in conjunction with Apple Vision Pro and other forthcoming headsets.
Enhancing Spatial Audio through IR Cameras
The new range of Apple’s headphones equipped with infrared (IR) cameras is expected to improve what is currently offered in terms of spatial audio.
Spatial audio which is available on products such as AirPods Pro, third-generation AirPods, and AirPods Max offers an immersive digital surround sound feeling that makes it feel like sounds are originating from all around you.
These new headphones are fitted with infrared (IR) cameras that track your movements so as to enhance this three-dimensional (3D) audio effect furthermore.
According to Kuo, the IR camera works similarly to the Face ID receiver on an iPhone without a transmitter. These devices will detect movement or rather motion of the head hence altering the audio accordingly.
For example, turning your head around can result in louder noise from that side thus giving one better immersion in listening to audio.
Also, when these camera-fitted AirPods work together with a Vision Pro headset, they can allow users to control sound using gestures made in the air.
With just simple moves and touches on your head, users would change their ambient sound environment and include interaction layers which would make them feel involved within it too.
Apple reportedly plans to launch AirPods with cameras by 2026 https://t.co/uWBAGe9SLn pic.twitter.com/mVojd34KJT
— Doug Brown, DBA (@dougbrownDBA) July 1, 2024
Strengthening the Apple Ecosystem
Kuo reiterated that Apple’s integration of hardware, software and services has always been aimed at enhancing the overall ecosystem. This is equally relevant to the new camera-equipped AirPods.
In the future, spatial computing commercialization conditions will be more mature; however, at present, Apple holds an important advantage in this area and can provide strong momentum for new growth.
“Apple’s planning for hardware, software, and services has always focused on strengthening the competitiveness of the ecosystem, and spatial computing is no exception,” said Kuo. “
As the commercialization conditions for spatial computing mature in the future, Apple, which has a significant lead in this area, is expected to generate new and strong growth momentum.”
Production Plans and Market Impact
Foxconn – an apple supplier/partner – would manufacture these IR cameras to go with these newly designed Airpods. The production target stands at 18-20 million units translating to approximately 10 million Airpods. However, actual supply depends on market demand.
This ambitious production plan reflects Apple’s confidence in the market potential of these advanced AirPods. By introducing cutting-edge camera technology into its product lineup, it wants to further consolidate its position as a leading player in personal audio devices.
The forthcoming generation of Air Pods with cameras represents a substantial leap forward as Apple pioneers by moving beyond personal audio devices’ confines.
These developments will not only improve customer experience but also demonstrate Apple’s commitment in spearheading spatial computing plus sound technology advancements.
