Apple accidentally revealed new details about AirPods with cameras
What the video reveals
Insiders discovered the video in a preview version of macOS Tahoe 26.7. It shows a man holding a book so that a camera on the AirPods can recognize its title. A voiceover explains how the visual intelligence feature works:
"With visual intelligence, your world becomes saveable. See something you like? Just ask me to save it for later," the AI assistant says in the video.
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
How the new AirPods will function
According to insiders, the camera on the AirPods will transmit images to a visual intelligence system. Using Siri, users will be able to ask questions about their surroundings and save the information gathered.
The macOS Tahoe 26.7 update also contains setup instructions for the feature. They state that the earbuds' sensors must remain unobstructed. For example, if the camera is covered by hair, the user will receive a push notification.
"To receive the most accurate information about your surroundings, ensure your AirPods are not covered by hair," the instructions read.
Launch expected soon
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman previously reported on the development of such earbuds. According to him, the AirPods with integrated cameras are codenamed B790.
He suggests the new product could be unveiled as early as September at Apple's annual event, where the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Ultra are also expected to debut.
Notably, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned cameras in Apple earbuds a year ago. At that time, however, the reports focused on infrared (IR) cameras. According to Kuo, these would allow users to navigate their environment and determine direction, with data collected by the camera transmitted to other devices via computer vision technology.
In related news, Apple recently warned of a potential shortage of iPhones, iPads, and Macs. During his remarks, Tim Cook confirmed that demand for the devices has exceeded company expectations, while rising memory costs could further increase Apple's expenses in the coming months.