Gurman: Apple AirPods with built-in camera currently in final testing stage

"Mark Gurman reports, citing sources familiar with the matter, that the upcoming AirPods are currently in the design validation testing (DVT) stage. Prototypes of the earbuds are reportedly being tested internally. Following the DVT phase, which marks the final stages of development, the AirPods will move into production validation testing (PVT), where early mass-production units of the earbuds are manufactured."

"Gurman notes that while the hardware is nearly finalized, the AirPods with built-in cameras could still be delayed if Apple is not satisfied with the AI experience. The earbuds were initially expected to launch in the first half of this year, but delays tied to the revamped Siri have reportedly pushed the timeline back."

"The cameras on these rumored AirPods, possibly branded as AirPods Ultra according to a recent leak, are expected to work with Siri to better understand the user's surroundings. Gurman adds that the design will remain similar to the current AirPods Pro 3, although the stems could be slightly longer to accommodate the camera hardware."

Next-generation AirPods with built-in cameras are in design validation testing, with internal prototype testing underway. After design validation, production validation testing will begin, producing early mass-production units. Hardware is nearly finalized, but launch timing could change if Apple is not satisfied with the AI experience. The earbuds were initially expected in the first half of the year, but delays related to a revamped Siri have pushed the timeline back. The cameras are expected to work with Siri to better understand the user’s surroundings. The design is expected to remain similar to AirPods Pro 3, with stems possibly slightly longer to fit the camera hardware.

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