AirPods Future: How Big Apple's Line-up Will Be in 2026 Apfelpatient

AirPods have long been among Apple's most successful products. What began as simple wireless earbuds has evolved into an entire product family. With the current AirPods Pro 3, however, Apple doesn't seem to be finished yet. Various reports suggest that another model could be added next year – creating the largest AirPods product line ever.

Apple was once known for offering a manageable product range. A few models, but carefully optimized – that was the long-standing concept. But with the steady growth of its user base, Apple's strategy has also changed. Today, the company covers different needs and price ranges with multiple versions of each product. This trend is particularly evident with the iPhone: there's the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, an iPhone Air, the 16e, and even the 16 and 16 Plus. According to insiders, this diversity will soon extend to the AirPods as well.

New AirPods with camera under discussion

Reports indicate that Apple is working on a new version of the AirPods Pro 3, which will reportedly be equipped with built-in infrared cameras. These cameras could be used for artificial intelligence functions, such as processing visual information or recognizing gestures.

A leaker describes the model as a high-end version of the existing AirPods Pro 3. It's therefore not intended as a replacement, but rather as an additional option in the product line. This would be an unusual, but consistent decision – because Apple typically keeps new AirPods models in its lineup for several years before releasing successors.

This would mean that the new model with a camera would not replace the AirPods Pro 3, but would exist alongside it as a separate version.

The AirPods range 2026

If the rumors are true, the AirPods lineup could look like this in 2026:

AirPods Pro 3 with camera (possibly advertised with AI features)
AirPods Pro 3
AirPods 4 with Active Noise Canceling (ANC)
AirPods 4 without ANC
AirPods Max

This would mean Apple would offer five different AirPods models simultaneously for the first time – more than ever before. The company would thus position its product range as broadly as with the iPhone, in order to appeal to as many user groups as possible.

This move would also be a logical continuation of what we already saw with the AirPods 4. These were released in two versions: one with noise cancellation and a cheaper version without ANC. Apple thus seems to be deliberately covering different price ranges and feature levels to make the AirPods accessible to a wider audience.

Apple's strategy: More choice, not less.

The growing product range shows that Apple is continuing its established strategy. Previously, the company relied on a strict framework with few models – a concept that originated under Steve Jobs' leadership. Today, Apple pursues a different strategy: more choice, more variety, and more specialization.

The market for wearables and headphones is highly competitive. With different AirPods versions, Apple can specifically target various customer groups – from beginners to professional users who expect maximum performance and innovative features.

Even if some long for a return to simpler times, it's clear that the current approach is successful. More models mean more flexibility and ultimately more revenue.

The AirPods grow with Apple

The AirPods are emblematic of Apple's evolution over the past few years. From a single product, an entire series has emerged, combining design, technology, and smart features. Should the model with integrated cameras actually be released, it would not only be a technological advancement but also a further step towards a connected, AI-powered future.

The 2026 AirPods lineup is expected to be more diverse than ever before – demonstrating Apple's continued willingness to experiment and explore new avenues without losing sight of its brand's core values. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those compatible with HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / rvlsoft)