Apple’s Next AirPods Could Give Siri Eyes

August 20, 2026

Apple may be getting ready to make AirPods a whole lot smarter.

A recent macOS Tahoe update reportedly revealed an unreleased video and software code showing future AirPods with tiny built-in cameras. They wouldn’t be used for taking photos or recording videos. Instead, the sensors could power Apple’s Visual Intelligence technology.

The idea is simple: your AirPods could help Siri understand what you’re looking at. You could look at a book, object or sign and ask Siri about it without pulling out your phone. Siri could also save details about something you see for later.

The cameras are expected to be low-resolution or infrared sensors used for environmental awareness and spatial tracking. Basically, they’re there to give Siri more context about what’s happening around you.

The leaked software even includes alerts that could warn you if your hair or another object is covering the sensors.

Apple hasn’t officially announced the new AirPods, so there’s no confirmed release date yet. Reports suggest the hardware could arrive around 2027.

If the technology makes it to market, AirPods could become much more than headphones. Siri may soon be able to hear your question and understand what you’re looking at when you ask it.

Asking Siri “What’s that?” could be about to get a lot more useful.

Written by: Janetzy