Apple could bring its first camera-equipped AirPods to the market earlier than expected, with a new report suggesting that one version may arrive as soon as September 2026. The development points to faster progress for the project, which was earlier expected to debut in 2027.
Apple is reportedly testing two camera-equipped AirPods prototypes internally with the codenames B790 and B798. Of the two models, B790 is believed to be at a more advanced stage of development and could be launched alongside Apple's next iPhone series if the company follows its regular September launch timeline.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, references to the B790 model have been found in iOS 27 code. Developer Sam Henri Gold had also identified the same codename in an earlier developer beta of the software. These findings suggest that Apple is continuing work on the device and preparing it within its software ecosystem.
The report states that Apple has been developing camera-equipped AirPods for several years as part of its wider artificial intelligence wearable strategy. The company is also working on other AI-based products, including smart glasses and a wearable AI pendant. The B798 model was earlier expected to arrive in 2026, though recent reports suggest that its launch could be delayed until late 2027.
The cameras are expected to help Siri understand the user's surroundings through Apple's Visual Intelligence system. The feature is reportedly designed for recognizing objects, reading text, and analyzing visual information rather than capturing photos or videos.
Software details indicate that the camera-equipped AirPods could offer features such as recognizing landmarks, identifying common objects and reading text aloud for users. The system may also ask users to capture another image if the first input is unclear or does not provide enough information. Reports suggest that Apple could place cameras on both sides of the earbuds to help them understand the user's surroundings. The design may include longer stems to make space for the camera hardware and an LED light to indicate when data is being transmitted.
The difference between the B790 and B798 models is not clear yet. Apple usually tests multiple versions of a product before deciding which one reaches customers. Some reports have suggested that B790 could be a new AirPods Pro version without cameras, while other findings point towards a camera-equipped model. Gurman has also reported that Apple may introduce the device under the AirPods Ultra name, as it is expected to cost more than the existing AirPods Pro models. Even if B790 launches in 2026, the more advanced B798 version is expected to arrive at a later stage.