Why Apple Might Put Cameras Into Its Next AirPods
If you were to ding Apple’s privacy credentials in one move, you could do worse than to launch AirPods with cameras. Whether or not they come to market, all of Apple’s existing ubiquitous earbuds would become a question mark for everyone in their vicinity: Are they recording me right now? According to Bloomberg’s well-sourced Mark Gurman, Apple has designed camera-equipped AirPods to allow Siri “to see” the wearer’s surroundings. They’re in the late stages of testing with Apple employees as part of an “AI device push.” However, a source who asked to remain anonymous because they are not authorized to speak publicly about the matter tells WIRED that Apple will likely delay the camera AirPods. While the hardware is ready, Siri’s visual intelligence is not up to par. Apple executives are also worried that the company is introducing a significant privacy risk with earbuds’ cameras without compelling use cases. Apple did not immediately respond to WIRED’s request for comment. That brings us to the main question: What advantages would Apple be seeking by adding cameras …
