Code unearthed in the second iOS 27 beta points to a bizarre new AirPods Ultra model featuring cameras on both sides of the user’s head. Developer Sam Henry Gold spotted references to a device labeled B790 that can reportedly stream ”two images from cameras located on each side of the user’s head.” While this might technically refer to another Apple gadget, the description matches long-standing rumors about smart headphones equipped with visual AI capabilities.
This code ties closely to Apple’s Visual Intelligence system-already present in the iPhone-which recognizes objects, text, and landmarks, then feeds suggestions through Siri. The code references landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, various texts, and even mundane items like a coffee cup. If Apple integrates this into headphones, it could produce an assistant that ”sees” your surroundings without you having to pull out your iPhone every time.
AirPods Ultra with dual cameras supported by iOS 27 code
While earlier speculation has leaned toward Apple smart glasses, the mention of dual cameras on the sides of the head suggests headphones are a better fit. Bloomberg previously reported Apple was exploring AirPods with external sensors for AI-driven spatial analysis, making the B790 code more likely to be an early blueprint for a not-yet-announced device rather than a coincidence.
Apple’s Visual Intelligence system enables contextual awareness in AirPods
This direction aligns with industry trends: Meta has been pushing Ray-Ban smart glasses with built-in cameras and multimodal AI for years, moving wearables beyond just audio. Apple appears to be taking a more achievable approach by embedding similar tech into its massively popular AirPods line. Headphones already have a much larger user base and a lower barrier to adoption compared to AR glasses.
Development status and expected launch of AI-powered AirPods Ultra
Adding intrigue, recent reports claim Apple temporarily paused development on AI-powered AirPods Ultra, though no official reasons were given. If the iOS 27 code is tied to this model, the project isn’t dead but likely still in testing behind the scenes. Expect a clearer picture this fall during Apple’s usual AirPods and iPhone event, where new features and possibly this model could finally be revealed.
* Meta owns Ray-Ban; the company is listed as an extremist organization and banned in Russia.