Apple may be preparing to introduce one of its most innovative audio products yet, with fresh reports indicating that the company could unveil camera-equipped AirPods before the end of 2026. While Apple has not officially confirmed the device, multiple leaks suggest that development is progressing rapidly, and references to the new earbuds have already appeared in iOS 27.
According to reports, Apple has been working on two separate prototypes internally, identified by the code names B790 and B798. Earlier rumors suggested that the B798 model had been delayed until 2027. However, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman now claims that the B790 version has advanced significantly and has been added to Apple’s internal product roadmap for a possible launch later this year.
Further evidence emerged when developer Sam Henri Gold reportedly discovered references to the B790 device within the iOS 27 Beta 2 code. Apple often develops multiple versions of a product before deciding which one reaches consumers, making it possible that B790 could become the company’s first commercially available camera-equipped AirPods.
The biggest highlight of these next-generation AirPods is expected to be the inclusion of tiny built-in cameras capable of supporting Apple’s growing Visual Intelligence features. Instead of simply capturing images, these cameras are believed to help the earbuds understand objects, surroundings, and contextual information, allowing users to interact with the world through AI-powered experiences.
Leaked information also suggests that the new AirPods may feature slightly longer stems than the current AirPods Pro to accommodate the camera hardware. Another rumored addition is an LED indicator that activates whenever the earbuds send visual data to Apple’s cloud-based AI services, potentially providing users with greater transparency regarding privacy and data usage.
Although Apple has yet to reveal the exact differences between the B790 and B798 prototypes, industry insiders believe the company is evaluating multiple hardware configurations before finalizing the product.
If the reports prove accurate, Apple could unveil the camera-equipped AirPods during its expected September 2026 launch event, alongside other major hardware announcements. Until then, all information remains based on leaks and unofficial sources. Nevertheless, the rumored device signals Apple’s continued push toward integrating artificial intelligence and visual computing into everyday consumer products, potentially redefining what truly wireless earbuds can do in the future.
