Apple is preparing to launch a new generation of AirPods equipped with built-in cameras, a move that could radically change the way we interact with technology. This development, revealed in a recent report by Bloomberg, aims to enable the Siri smart assistant to “see” the world around you and interact with it without needing to take your phone out of your pocket.

What’s the Story?

According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, one of the most trusted sources for Apple news, the company is working on developing AirPods equipped with infrared cameras (Infrared Cameras). These cameras are not for taking photos or videos but to feed the Siri smart assistant with visual information about the user’s surroundings.

AirPods with future technology: Built-in cameras and screenless computing

Reports indicate that these headphones could hit the market no later than 2027, as part of Apple’s broader strategy to transition toward screenless computing. The idea is simply to reduce our reliance on looking at screens and interact with devices in more natural ways.

How Will It Work?

Imagine you’re walking down the street and want information about the restaurant in front of you. Instead of taking out your phone and opening an app, you could simply ask Siri, “What restaurant is this?” and the headphones will use the camera to see the restaurant and answer you immediately. Or while reading a book in a foreign language, you ask, “Translate this sentence for me,” and the headphones will scan and translate the text.

This trend is not unique to Apple. Snap (the owner of Snapchat) recently announced its new smart glasses, Specs, priced at $2,195, which work independently without needing a phone. Meanwhile, Meta continues to develop its Ray-Ban smart glasses. However, Apple is taking a different direction by making ordinary wireless earbuds the starting point.

Screenless computing technology: How Apple is changing the way we interact with technology

Screenless Computing: The New Wave

The technical term for this revolution is “ambient computing,” the idea that technology should be present in our environment without forcing us to stare at screens. Apple began this trend with the Apple Vision Pro, but headphones with built-in cameras represent a more practical and widely adoptable step.

In addition to AirPods, Apple is developing lightweight smart glasses (AR Glasses) as a separate product, but the headphone project is less expensive and easier for the average user to adopt.

How Will This Affect the Saudi User?

Saudi Arabia is one of Apple’s largest markets in the Arab world, and the popularity of AirPods among Saudi youth is very high. With widespread adoption of this technology in the Kingdom, this feature could be useful in several areas:

  • Tourism: Getting information about landmarks or restaurants instantly.
  • Instant death about historical landmarks in AlUla, Diriyah, and Diriyah Gate in Riyadh at first glance.
  • Shopping: Scan products in markets to get their details, prices, and compare them.
  • Education: Instantly translate texts in books and articles while studying.
  • Instant Translation: Assist pilgrims and Umrah performers from different nationalities in communicating in Arabic.
  • Business: Scan business cards and attend meetings with instant translation of conversations.
    • The Future of Technology in Saudi Arabia: AirPods with Cameras and Smart Interaction

    Key Points

    • Privacy: Apple focuses on processing data on the device itself (On-device Processing) to protect users’ privacy, which is very important for Saudi users concerned about their data security.
    • Expected Price: It is expected to be more expensive than the current AirPods Pro (which are sold for around 1099 Saudi Riyals), but significantly cheaper than the Vision Pro glasses (sold for 15000 Saudi Riyals).
    • Battery: Additional cameras and sensors will consume more power, and Apple may need to develop more efficient batteries.
    • Compatibility: It will likely require newer iPhone models (possibly iPhone 19 or 20) to run these features to their full potential.

    ❓ FAQs

    Who needs AirPods with built-in cameras?
    Anyone who uses AirPods daily and enjoys quick interactions with technology without taking out their phone. Suitable for professionals, students, travelers, and anyone who wants a smoother tech experience in their daily life.

    Where will these earbuds be sold?
    They are expected to be launched globally in key markets, including Saudi Arabia, through the official Apple Store and authorized distributors like Jarir and Extra. The Kingdom is usually among the first wave for Apple product launches.

    How much will they cost?
    Apple has not yet announced the price, but expectations suggest it will be between 1500 and 2000 Saudi Riyals, making it more expensive than AirPods Pro 2 but much cheaper than Vision Pro.

    How long until launch?
    Reports indicate the launch could be in the first half of 2027, meaning it’s about a year away. This suggests Apple is still in the development and testing phases.

    How do I use them?
    Just like regular AirPods: open the case near your iPhone, and it will connect automatically. New features like visual scanning and instant translation will be available through Siri updates and the smart assistant, working with simple voice commands.

    Sources:
    Bloomberg report by Mark Gurman – June 16, 2026
    BBC report – June 24, 2026
    The Verge report – July 12, 2026