Leaked Video Reveals Apple’s Camera-Equipped AirPods Ahead of Launch

​Apple appears to be preparing a major update to its AirPods lineup, with leaked footage suggesting the addition of inbuilt cameras. A new video, reportedly found in the macOS Tahoe 26.7 release and shared by MacRumours, allegedly shows the upcoming camera AirPods in use. This leak provides the first detailed look at what Apple may introduce in the near future.

Key Highlights

• Leaked video shows Apple testing AirPods with inbuilt cameras and visual intelligence features.
• macOS Tahoe 26.7 code references two camera AirPods projects with codenames B790 and B798.
• Camera AirPods may launch alongside iPhone 18 Pro and could be named AirPods Ultra.

Leaked Video Shows Camera AirPods

The video clip features a person wearing AirPods that closely resemble current models. The individual picks up a book and holds it up, allowing the AirPods’ camera to read the title. A narrator in the video states, "With visual intelligence, your world becomes savable. See something you like? Just ask me to save it for later." The video does not reveal the exact placement of the cameras on the AirPods, but it suggests the cameras are designed to support Visual Intelligence rather than traditional photo or video capture.

According to the report, another part of the demo shows the wearer receiving an alert if their hair covers the AirPods. The message reads, "To get the most accurate information about things in your environment, make sure AirPods are not covered." This feature indicates the device’s reliance on unobstructed camera input for optimal performance.

Product Codenames and Software References

The device shown in the leak carries the codename B790. The macOS Tahoe 26.7 release reportedly contains several references to B790, as well as mentions of other unreleased Apple products. In addition to B790, Apple is said to be developing another camera AirPods project under the codename B798. These references suggest that Apple is actively working on multiple versions of camera-equipped AirPods.

Expected Launch and Pricing Details

Reports indicate that Apple may unveil the camera AirPods before the end of the year, possibly during its September event. While Apple has not officially confirmed any details, the launch could coincide with the introduction of the iPhone 18 Pro and potentially the iPhone Fold. If the leaks are accurate, the camera AirPods may be showcased alongside these new devices.

Pricing for the camera-equipped AirPods is expected to exceed the current AirPods Pro 3, which retail for Rs 25,900 in India. There is speculation that Apple may name the new model “AirPods Ultra” instead of AirPods Pro 4, reflecting its advanced features.

Additional Apple Developments

Apple is also preparing to launch the iPhone 18 Pro next month, which is expected to introduce new pricing and unique features. However, reports suggest that the iPhone Ultra may not be released in India alongside the iPhone 18 Pro. In related news, Apple recently announced Siri AI, which is powered by next-generation Apple Intelligence in iOS 27 and macOS Golden Gate.