Apple’s rumored AirPods with built-in cameras have entered the final stages of testing, according to a new report. Details about these next-generation AirPods were first revealed in February this year.
Citing sources familiar with the matter, Mark Gurman reports that the upcoming AirPods are currently in the design verification testing (DVT) stage. Prototypes of the earbuds are reportedly being tested internally.
apple airpods pro 3
After the DVT stage, which marks the final stage of development, the AirPods will move into Production Verification Testing (PVT), where initial mass production units of the earbuds are manufactured.
Gurman noted that although the hardware is almost finalized, AirPods with a built-in camera could still be delayed if Apple isn’t satisfied with the AI experience. The earbuds were initially expected to launch in the first half of this year, but delays related to the revamped Siri have reportedly pushed the timeline back.
The cameras on these rumored AirPods, which are possibly branded as AirPods Ultra according to a recent leak, are expected to work with Siri to better understand the user’s surroundings. Gurman says the design will remain similar to the existing AirPods Pro 3, though the stems may be slightly longer to accommodate the camera hardware.
