What we’re expecting
Visual Intelligence could become the feature that makes AirPods Ultra feel different from today’s earbuds. Instead of simply listening for voice commands, Siri would also understand what is happening around you, making it possible to ask questions about objects, signs, products, or places without taking your phone out of your pocket.
AirPods Ultra are expected to use their infrared cameras to provide visual context for Siri through Apple’s Visual Intelligence platform. Rather than functioning like conventional cameras for photos or video, the sensors are designed to help Apple Intelligence recognize objects, understand the surrounding environment, and answer questions about what the user is looking at. Apple already offers similar capabilities on supported iPhones by pointing the camera at an object and asking Siri a question. AirPods Ultra are expected to make that experience hands-free, allowing users to identify products, read signs, get information about nearby landmarks, or ask contextual questions while walking, shopping, or traveling. Apple has not confirmed how Visual Intelligence will work on AirPods or whether every existing iPhone capability will be supported. Current reports suggest the goal is to give Siri environmental awareness rather than turn the earbuds into wearable cameras.