Epic AirPods Upgrade Delayed Until 2026? Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo Reveals IR Camera and Game-Changing Features

Epic AirPods Upgrade Delayed Until 2026? Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo Reveals IR Camera and Game-Changing Features

On May 19, Apple’s AirPods once again became the focus of attention, but fans may have to wait another year. Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently revealed that the “epic upgrade” for AirPods won’t arrive until 2026, when infrared (IR) camera technology will be integrated to deliver a whole new level of smart interaction.

Apple plans to incorporate the infrared camera used in iPhone’s Face ID into the AirPods, enabling intelligent spatial audio enhancement. For example, when wearing AirPods paired with the Vision Pro headset while watching movies, turning your head will automatically adjust the sound direction, making the audio seem like it’s coming naturally from the screen. Additionally, the IR camera will support air gesture controls, allowing users to skip tracks, answer calls, and adjust volume without physically touching the device — a huge convenience for driving or exercising.

Kuo also revealed that future AirPods may support fitness tracking by using the IR sensor to monitor head movements and heart rate, transforming the earbuds into a smart health assistant.

However, these revolutionary features won’t be available until 2026. Meanwhile, the upcoming AirPods Pro 3, expected this fall, won’t be as radical but will feature the new H3 chip for improved active noise cancellation and sound quality, as well as possible heart rate monitoring and enhanced spatial audio, along with basic gesture control.

As a long-standing wireless earphone product, AirPods’ upgrade pace has slowed noticeably in recent years. Apple seems to be preparing a “big move” to redefine the smart wearable experience through the integration of the IR camera and Vision Pro ecosystem. Meanwhile, Android earbuds are gaining ground with better quality and more competitive prices, putting pressure on Apple to deliver breakthrough innovation or risk losing users.

In summary, although AirPods users will need to wait longer, this “epic upgrade” could fundamentally change how we use wireless earbuds — definitely something to look forward to.