Apple is reportedly preparing one of its most ambitious product launches in years. According to a new report, the company is working on a special anniversary iPhone, its first foldable iPhone, and a next-generation pair of AirPods equipped with cameras, all of which could arrive around 2027.
The products are expected to play a key role in Apple's long-term artificial intelligence strategy as the company looks to compete more aggressively in the AI-powered device market.
What is Apple's special anniversary iPhone?
Apple is widely expected to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iPhone in 2027 with a redesigned flagship model.
Previous leaks have suggested the device could feature a near bezel-less display, advanced under-display technologies and a completely refreshed design language.
The anniversary edition is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 19 series and could become one of the most significant iPhone upgrades since the original iPhone X.
Why are camera-equipped AirPods generating buzz?
The biggest surprise may be Apple's new AirPods, which are reportedly being developed with built-in cameras.
Unlike traditional cameras used for photography or video recording, these sensors are expected to help Apple's AI systems understand the wearer's surroundings in real time.
The cameras could allow Siri to identify objects, answer contextual questions and provide more personalised assistance based on what users are looking at.
How will the AI-powered AirPods work?
The report suggests the cameras will feed environmental information directly to Siri and Apple's AI models.
Potential features may include:
- Object recognition
- Context-aware reminders
- Enhanced navigation assistance
- Real-time information about surroundings
- Improved accessibility tools
The technology is expected to build upon Apple's Visual Intelligence feature, which already allows users to ask questions about images captured through the iPhone camera.
Has Apple delayed the camera-equipped AirPods?
Previous reports suggested Apple initially wanted to launch the product in 2026.
However, the company is reportedly facing challenges related to AI development and visual recognition systems.
As a result, the launch may now be pushed to late 2027 to ensure the technology meets Apple's quality standards.
Will Apple launch a foldable iPhone at the same time?
Yes, according to current reports, Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone around the same period.
The device is rumoured to feature a book-style folding design, a large internal display and premium hardware aimed at competing directly with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series.
Some reports suggest Apple may market the foldable device under the "iPhone Ultra" branding.
What other AI devices is Apple developing?
Beyond the anniversary iPhone and AI-powered AirPods, Apple is also said to be working on smart glasses.
The glasses could arrive as early as late next year and would form part of Apple's broader wearable AI ecosystem.
Together, the upcoming products indicate that Apple is preparing for a future where AI is deeply integrated across iPhones, wearables and smart devices.