AirPods can soon ‘watch over you’ in a hopefully non-creepy way.
Apple is reportedly working on a new feature for its next-generation AirPods: adding cameras. This exciting development could make AirPods act a bit like smart glasses, but without needing any lenses or frames.
Named B798, this project aims to supercharge AirPods with cutting-edge AI, AR technologies, and health sensors aimed to aid in the users’ daily routines.
Cameras on AirPods: What Is It For?
According to Mark Gurman’s report on Bloomberg’s Power On newsletter, Apple’s project B798 started last year.
This project involves embedding low-resolution cameras in AirPods. All to enable augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) features. Ultimately, this aims to enhance the way users interact with their surroundings.
However, these cameras are not expected to be used for video recording. Instead, they are for data processing to aid in daily routines.
There’s not much information yet on what the main purpose of the cameras and actual features are. But, based on the report, we can assume that this can help offer navigation and provide personalized assistance to the user.
This can be very useful for visually impaired users.
Imagine navigating through a busy city. Your AirPods, now equipped with cameras, scan the environment. As you reach a crosswalk, a voice through the AirPods updates you on the pedestrian signal and guides you safely across.
With the help of AI and AR, the AirPods could also improve how we monitor physical activities.
For instance, during a workout, the cameras could accurately track your movements, offering real-time feedback on your form and intensity. This data, combined with AI analysis, could provide personalized recommendations. These can improve your exercise routine or alert you to potential strain, reducing the risk of injury.
It’s like having a smart assistant right in your ear, offering help or insights based on what you see.
AirPods for Health Monitoring
The AirPods’ new features can also extend to monitoring signs of illness.
Earlier reports suggest Apple’s interest in incorporating temperature sensors to detect fever or other symptoms. Aside from that, the update can also include heart monitoring. All information will come directly from the ear canal.
This offers a new way to continuously check your health metrics discreetly and efficiently. If something unusual pops up, you’ll know right away, allowing you to seek advice or help without delay.
Other Potentially Upcoming Apple Wearables
Apple’s push into new wearable technologies extends beyond its plans for AirPods.
According to the Bloomberg report, the company is also exploring the development of a smart ring.
This concept draws inspiration from the Apple Watch but in a more compact, finger-worn device.
There’s not much information on this, yet, but the main goal for the smart ring is mostly health monitoring. The smart ring could monitor key health indicators such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and steps.
Apple is also considering entering the smart glasses market. Internal discussions suggest these glasses could offer various functionalities. This includes audio output, AI-driven identification of objects, and potential augmented reality (AR) applications.