Apple AirPods Pro 4 may include cameras: Here’s what it means

Apple is expected to release new AirPods Pro this year. Rumours suggest that upcoming models may feature built-in infrared cameras, which will be the main upgrade. The updated AirPods Pro 3 would include IR cameras while maintaining the same design as the current model that launched last fall, a leaker claims. The camera-equipped AirPods Pro are expected to debut this year, despite Apple historically maintaining three-year gaps between new AirPods Pro models. Instead of an all-new design, this year’s AirPods Pro are expected to be the same as the current AirPods Pro 3, with infrared cameras as the primary upgrade.A leaker recently corroborated the camera feature, which has been the main new capability rumoured for the upcoming high-end AirPods Pro model. In a post shared on X, a leaker named Kosutami wrote: “Next AirPods Pro can see around you. At same price avail.”However, the leaker claiming these new AirPods will be the same price as the current model may not be true. Apple is likely to follow the pattern of its current AirPods 4 lineup, with two models differentiated by a single primary feature.

What features AirPods Pro with cameras may bring for users

The addition of IR cameras should enable visual intelligence-style AI capabilities, which may explain why Apple CEO Tim Cook keeps touting visual intelligence as a notable AI feature for users.The discussion of imaging sensors in AirPods Pro first appeared in June 2024. At the time, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed that infrared camera modules would be used to provide an environmental view, enhancing Spatial Audio on the Apple Vision Pro.In July 2025, Apple was granted a patent for a method of using cameras for proximity detection, such as in AirPods or other wearable devices. Rather than full computer vision, these sensors would use multiple light sources visible to the sensor, similar to the dot projector used by Face ID for 3D depth mapping.Rumours have also expanded the sensors’ function to include imaging as IR cameras for the environment. This data could be fed into Apple Intelligence, providing it with visual intelligence data to work from alongside any images taken with an iPhone camera.However, currently there’s no word on the exact release timing. Apple typically launches new AirPods in the fall at the iPhone event, but this new model could arrive sooner.