When is Apple releasing new AirPods?

Apple’s AirPods lineup is stronger than ever, but there are already rumors about what’s coming next. Here’s everything we know so far about when Apple will release new AirPods.

Apple’s current AirPods lineup

Here is Apple’s AirPods lineup as it stands today:

When is Apple releasing new AirPods?

AirPods with cameras

The biggest change coming to Apple’s AirPods lineup is a new version of AirPods with built-in cameras.

This pair of AirPods will have a camera in both the left and the right earbuds. The cameras, however, aren’t designed for photo and video capture. Instead, they will be used in conjunction with Siri to provide context for the environment around you. Bloomberg has described them as “the eyes” for Siri.

For example, while looking at food ingredients, you could ask your AirPods what to make for dinner or for specific nutritional information. They might also integrate with other apps on your iPhone, such as Reminders and Maps, to provide environmental awareness features.

In terms of design, the AirPods with cameras will reportedly have longer stems than normal AirPods Pro to accommodate the cameras. There will also be a small LED light that automatically turns on when the cameras are capturing data.

The AirPods with cameras were originally slated for release in 2026. More recent reporting, however, suggests the timeline has slipped to late 2027 because of Apple Intelligence and Siri delays.

Other AirPods updates

Apple just updated AirPods Max earlier this year with the H2 chip, a new high-dynamic range amplifier, improved audio quality, and more.

Last year, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that Apple was working on a new AirPods Max model for 2027 that is lighter than the current design. It’s unclear whether this refresh is still on the roadmap.

Apple released AirPods 4 in two different variants in November 2024. Right now, there are no rumors about an update to Apple’s most affordable AirPods.

AirPods Pro 3 were released last fall with a revamped in-ear fit, improved sound quality, and a built-in heart rate monitor. Right now, it’s unclear where the aforementioned AirPods with cameras fit in Apple’s lineup. It’s possible that these come as “AirPods Pro 4” or perhaps as a higher-end AirPods Ultra product.

Wrap up: Should you buy AirPods now?

With all that said, if you’re in the market for new AirPods, I think now is a great time to buy.

The update closest on Apple’s roadmap is the AirPods with cameras, and those aren’t expected for at least another year. Apple’s overall AirPods lineup is incredibly strong, especially if you can snag a pair on sale.

What do you think about the current state of the AirPods lineup? Are you interested in AirPods with cameras? Let us know down in the comments.