GoKawiilApple skips camera-equipped AirPods Pro at September event, delay to 2027
Apple's September event unveiled the foldable iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro models, ANC on the entry-level AirPods 5, and a Siri Recap feature for Apple Watch, but did not include the long-rumored AirPods Pro with built-in cameras. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, that camera-equipped model has been pushed back to 2027. The rumored cameras were said to be low-resolution and meant to feed Siri and Visual Intelligence rather than capture photos or video.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Putting always-on cameras into earbuds worn constantly in public and private spaces raises serious surveillance and consent concerns, since indicator lights have proven insufficient to stop covert recording with devices like Meta's smart glasses. The delay gives Apple more time to address privacy safeguards, but it also signals the broader industry push to embed visual AI sensors into everyday wearables, a trend likely to intensify regardless of Apple's caution.
- Apple's September event skipped rumored camera-equipped AirPods Pro entirely.
- Bloomberg reports the camera AirPods are now delayed until 2027.
- Privacy concerns over always-on wearable cameras remain a major obstacle despite low-resolution, AI-only design claims.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) — If camera-equipped earbuds sound like a step too far, the current AirPods Pro are the camera-free sweet spot. You still get active noise cancellation, Transparency mode, and seamless pairing across Apple devices — no lenses required.
See Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: theverge.com — John Higgins, 2026-09-09
Published there as: “There aren’t AirPods with cameras yet and I hope it stays that way”
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