Apple's Future AirPods Pro: Cameras, Gesture Controls, and New Audio Chips Rumored for 2026

Reports from various analysts and leakers suggest Apple is developing future generations of its AirPods Pro. These potential new models could feature integrated cameras, advanced gesture controls, and new audio processing chips.

With a possible launch in 2026, these rumored AirPods Pro could introduce new product tiers and functionalities, including enhanced interaction capabilities.

Potential Hardware and Features

Future AirPods Pro models are rumored to incorporate significant hardware upgrades designed to revolutionize user interaction and audio experience.

Integrated Cameras

Leaker Kosutami stated that upcoming AirPods Pro could perceive their surroundings, likely through cameras within each earbud. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously indicated that 2026 AirPods Pro models might include at least one tiny infrared camera.

This camera technology is reported to facilitate advanced hand gesture recognition, allowing users to control functions such as music playback and calls without needing to press physical buttons or touch sensors. Instant Digital suggested that these cameras might lead to the removal of pressure sensors, making gesture controls the primary interaction method.

Kuo also suggested that infrared cameras could offer an enhanced spatial audio experience, particularly when paired with Apple's Vision Pro headset.

H3 Chip

A next-generation audio chip, referred to as the H3 chip in some reports, is also a rumored component. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has reported on the development of such a chip, noting that its specific device application is still under consideration, but its potential inclusion in a future premium AirPods model is being explored.

Product Positioning and Pricing

There are varying reports regarding the product positioning and pricing strategy for these rumored AirPods Pro models.

Concurrent Sales

The new models are expected to complement the existing AirPods Pro 3 rather than replace them. This strategy could involve selling multiple AirPods Pro variants concurrently, similar to Apple's approach for the AirPods 4 lineup, which includes different price points.

Pricing Divergence

Leaker Kosutami suggested that new AirPods Pro models could maintain the current $249 price point. In contrast, Chinese leaker Instant Digital, while corroborating infrared camera rumors, indicated that a 2026 AirPods Pro would be a more expensive, high-end variant, positioned above an anticipated 2025 AirPods Pro 3.

Potential Price Tier

Analyst observations suggest a plausible new product tier could emerge, bridging the current price gap between the $249 AirPods Pro and the $549 AirPods Max. This potential new tier could range from $349 to $399, aligning with market trends for high-end Bluetooth earbuds.

Anticipated Release Timeline

2026 Launch

A launch for advanced AirPods Pro models is generally anticipated in 2026. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported in September 2025 that Apple planned a successor to the AirPods Pro 3 for 2026.

Typical Release Cycle

This timeline is broadly consistent with Apple's typical three-year cycle for major AirPods hardware updates, such as the AirPods Pro 2 debuting in September 2022 and receiving a USB-C charging case update in September 2023.

Annual Timing

New AirPods models are typically announced in the latter half of the year, often coinciding with Apple's annual iPhone event.

Sources of Information

Information regarding these potential developments has been circulated by several analysts and leakers, including Ming-Chi Kuo, Instant Digital, Kosutami, and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.