iOS 27 Beta 2 Leaks Camera AirPods With Visual Intelligence

References to an upcoming Apple product, codenamed B790, have surfaced within the second beta of iOS 27, strongly indicating the development of AirPods equipped with cameras. These new audio devices are expected to integrate "Visual Intelligence," a feature that could allow users to query their surroundings contextually without needing to access their iPhone.

Developer Sam Henri Gold discovered system prompts within the iOS 27 beta 2 that detail potential functionalities for the camera-equipped AirPods. The prompts specifically mention "two images from cameras on either side of user’s head," further solidifying speculation that B790 refers to the long-rumored AirPods Pro with cameras. Initially, Gold considered the possibility of this being related to Apple's AI glasses, but the codename points more directly to the audio accessory.

While Gold's findings point to codename B790, previous reports from Bloomberg suggested B798. This discrepancy may represent different developmental stages of the product, a common occurrence in hardware and software rollouts.

Visual Intelligence Promises New Interaction Methods

The integration of cameras into AirPods could usher in a new era of interaction with Apple's ecosystem. The "Visual Intelligence" capability would theoretically enable users to ask Siri contextual questions about their environment. For instance, a user could point at an object and ask, "What is this plant?" or "Where can I buy this item?" receiving an answer based on the camera's visual input.

This technology has the potential to make interacting with the iPhone's AI capabilities significantly faster and more seamless. Instead of pulling out a phone to take a picture or look up information, users could potentially get instant answers directly through their AirPods. This aligns with Apple's broader strategy to embed artificial intelligence deeper into its devices and services.

The development of these advanced AirPods Pro models has reportedly faced delays due to software challenges. Initial expectations pointed to a launch sometime in 2026, but sources now suggest a possible debut in the fall of 2027, potentially coinciding with the release of the 20th-anniversary iPhone. If these camera-equipped AirPods materialize, they would represent a significant leap forward in wearable technology, blending audio convenience with advanced visual processing. The implications for accessibility and augmented reality experiences could be substantial, transforming how users perceive and interact with the world around them through audio cues and contextual information.

The addition of cameras to AirPods would not be the first time Apple has pushed the boundaries of its accessories. The AirPods Pro 3 themselves are rumored to feature improved active noise cancellation. However, the integration of cameras signifies a more ambitious expansion into visual computing, moving beyond simple audio transmission and noise cancellation. Industry analysts anticipate that this move could set a new benchmark for smart audio devices, encouraging competitors to explore similar hardware integrations. The potential for enhanced user privacy and data security will likely be a key consideration as Apple develops and markets this new product category.