Core Insights - Apple plans to expand its AirPods product line by introducing an "AI version" with a built-in camera by 2026 [1][3] - The AI version aims to enhance interaction and environmental awareness, moving beyond traditional audio input/output capabilities [3] Product Development - The new AI version of AirPods will feature an infrared camera for spatial awareness, gesture recognition, and object tracking [3] - Users will be able to control the headphones through head movements or gestures, integrating seamlessly with AR devices like Apple Vision Pro [3] Strategic Alignment - This development aligns with Apple's recent focus on augmented reality (AR) and the integration of AirPods into the Vision Pro ecosystem [3] - Analysts suggest that the AI version of AirPods could play a crucial role in building Apple's "spatial computing" ecosystem, enabling complex functions like environmental awareness, real-time translation, and health monitoring [3]