A short promo video hidden inside a recent software update gives us our first real look at Apple‘s upcoming earbuds. The clip was found by people digging through the code of a new test version of Mac software. It shows a person wearing the AirPods and using built-in cameras to scan real-world objects. This confirms older rumors about the company putting tiny lenses inside its popular wireless headphones.
New earbud cameras let the voice assistant scan physical objects
The leaked video popped up in a software release candidate, surprising many users who monitor system updates. These files often hide clues about unreleased hardware, much like the hidden details developers uncover when testing a macOS 27 Golden Gate beta. In the short clip, a man holds up a book while wearing what look like standard earbuds. A voiceover then explains a feature called Visual Intelligence. The voice says that if you see something you like, you can just ask the assistant to save it for later.
Because the earbuds have a small camera built into them, the voice assistant can actually look at the things right in front of you. Instead of pulling out a phone to snap a photo, you can just point your head at a book or a sign and ask a question. The cameras act as an extra set of eyes for the smart assistant to gather basic information.
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The design stays familiar despite the extra internal hardware changes
Even though the earbuds pack new lenses, they look very similar to the current models on the market. The stems might be just a bit thicker to make room for the extra parts, but you cannot easily spot a camera on the outside. The software also includes a warning that tells users to keep their hair pulled back so the lenses do not get covered up.
Right now, it is not clear when these new headphones will hit store shelves. Some people think the company might announce them during a big hardware event this September. Fans will have to wait for an official reveal to learn how much these upgraded earbuds will cost.
For now, the video proves that Apple is actively testing this unusual concept. Putting cameras inside small earbuds might raise some privacy questions, but it definitely gives the company a unique way to mix smart voice controls with the physical world.
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