Apple is suspected of integrating an infrared camera into the upcoming AirPods Pro 4. According to reports, these sensors will enable the earbuds to see the user's surroundings, opening up new ways of hands-free interaction and deeper integration into the Apple Vision Pro ecosystem.
The addition of infrared technology is one of the biggest design changes to AirPods since the first model. With tiny camera modules, it's possible for the earbuds to recognize complex hand gestures in the air, allowing users to control playback or volume without touching the device. Additionally, spatial audio is expected to be improved by more accurately tracking the user's position relative to their surroundings and other Apple devices.
Apple typically follows a three-year update cycle for its audio products, but this Pro variant is expected to arrive in 2026. There is speculation whether it will be called AirPods Pro 4 or will be a high-end variant that sits above the AirPods Pro 3. The strategy is similar to the AirPods 4, with different price points and features within the same generation to reach a wider segment of the high-end audio market.
Currently, the AirPods Pro 4 are rumored to have a $249 USD price point and are expected to launch in the second half of 2026. This hardware update will provide a new experience with hands-free control, especially for tech and immersive audio enthusiasts.
While we await the official announcement, many Apple fans are certainly excited about the potential of the new infrared-enabled earbuds, which could potentially change the way people interact with their devices on a daily basis. This update sets a new standard for premium wireless earbuds in the next generation.
