A video file found in the new macOS 26.7 release candidate code gives us our first look at Apple’s upcoming AirPods with built-in infrared cameras. The video shows the AirPods Pro working in tandem with Visual Intelligence to let you save information about objects you see in the real world.
In the short demo, a man holds up a book so the AirPods’ cameras can identify its title. He then asks Siri to save it for later, showing how the IR cameras could give Apple’s earbuds a better understanding of the world around you.
AirPods Pro’s cameras will see what you see
Multiple reports suggest Apple continues working on a new pair of premium earbuds, possibly called AirPods Ultra or AirPods Pro 4. The standout feature is expected to be built-in IR cameras. This will allow the earbuds to see the world around you and provide relevant information when needed.
The demo video in macOS 26.7 RC, which Apple released Monday, shows exactly that. The upcoming AirPods look similar to the current AirPods Pro 3 but seemingly have IR cameras built into the stems.
The voiceover in the video pitches the feature as a way to make instant reminders for yourself using the iPhone’s Visual Intelligence.
“With Visual Intelligence, your world becomes savable,” says the voiceover in the video. “See something you like? Just ask me to save it for later.”
Here is your first look at AirPods with Cameras in action using Visual Intelligence.
This video file came from macOS 26.7 RC pic.twitter.com/yo7RI4MCeu
— Aaron (@aaronp613) August 18, 2026
The feature will rely heavily on Siri, which explains why Apple never got around to launching AirPods with cameras before.
If the wearer’s hair covers the AirPods, an alert will appear: “To get the most accurate information about things in your environment, make sure AirPods are not covered.”
Besides saving information, the IR cameras may also enable support for air gesture controls.
Apple could unveil the new camera-equipped AirPods Ultra alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and foldable iPhone in September. That said, more recent leaks indicate the product may have been delayed to 2027.
Rajesh has been writing about consumer technology for over a decade, with a strong focus on iPhones, Macs and Apple’s ecosystem. He enjoys digging into Apple software updates, hardware changes, and discovering new Mac apps that make work faster and more enjoyable.
You can reach out to him at mail[at]rajeshpandey.me.
