Apple puts camera‑enabled AirPods Pro project on hold

Apple has reportedly paused development of a new AirPods Pro model that would integrate a tiny camera to support its upcoming Visual Intelligence features. Leaker Kosutami said the project, originally slated for a 2026 launch, is now on hold due to delays in the new AI‑driven Siri software (still in iOS 27 testing) and ongoing supply‑chain constraints for memory and silicon chips.

Separate analysis of iOS 27 beta code uncovered an internal code name B790 that describes a head‑mounted device with dual cameras. Analysts link this to a rumored “AirPods Ultra” that would use similar visual‑sensing technology, potentially reaching market by late 2027. The code references example scenes such as the Eiffel Tower and coffee cups, indicating the device could identify landmarks, text, and objects without needing a phone.

Both reports suggest Apple is aiming to extend AI‑powered environmental sensing from phones and wearables to ear‑level accessories, but the timeline is uncertain as hardware and software components are still being refined.