During Apple’s September technology showcase, the expected debut of AirPods Pro featuring integrated cameras did not occur. The event instead focused on other major releases, including the company’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, and the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. Additionally, the latest entry-level earbuds, known as the AirPods 5, received active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities for the first time.
Another highlight was a new Siri Recap feature rolling out to the Watch Series 12 and Watch Ultra 4. However, the device that generated significant speculation throughout the year—the camera-equipped AirPods Pro—was conspicuously absent.
According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, who has closely tracked Apple’s development pipeline, these camera-enabled earbuds have been postponed and are now projected to launch no earlier than 2027. The decision to delay the product leaves many analysts and consumers observing the gap between rumor and reality in Apple’s wearable lineup.
I almost didn’t attend the keynote because of the camera bud rumors. Totally worth it for the iPhone Duo announcement though! Who else is excited?
Siri Recap on the Watch is actually useful, but skipping the Pro camera edition feels like a miss this year. Curious where the R&D went.
2027 seems incredibly late for this. If my ANC AirPods 5 are good enough, why would I wait years for cameras?
Wait, the iPhone Duo is real?! I thought that was just a leak. Did anyone else catch that during the presentation?
I’m genuinely confused why they prioritized a foldable iPhone over camera buds. Those earbuds feel like the more practical innovation.