Apple's Next Big Things

What’s Apple cooking up next? From AirPods with cameras to smart glasses, the future looks wild!

Two people are sitting in a room, looking at their devices. One is using a laptop, the other a phone or tablet.
Photography by cottonbro studio on Pexels
Published: Wednesday, 25 June 2025 07:13 (EDT)
By Hannah White

Apple is no stranger to innovation. Every year, they drop something that makes us go, “Wait, what?” And it seems like 2027 is shaping up to be another one of those years. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is working on some futuristic gadgets that might just change the way we interact with tech. But what exactly are these gadgets, and why should you care? Let’s dive in!

1. AirPods with Cameras (Yes, You Read That Right)

We’ve seen AirPods evolve from simple wireless earbuds to noise-canceling, spatial audio powerhouses. But Apple isn’t stopping there. Gurman hints that by 2027, we could be seeing AirPods with built-in cameras. Imagine this: you're walking down the street, and your AirPods are not only playing your favorite tunes but also capturing your surroundings. It’s like having a GoPro in your ears!

Now, before you freak out about privacy concerns, let’s remember that Apple has always been big on privacy. If they do roll out AirPods with cameras, you can bet they’ll have some serious safeguards in place. But still, the idea of AirPods doubling as a camera? That’s next-level James Bond stuff.

2. Smart Glasses: Apple’s Answer to Meta

Apple is also reportedly working on smart glasses, which could be a direct competitor to Meta’s Ray-Ban collaboration. These glasses are expected to integrate with Apple’s Vision Pro technology, which was first introduced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) last year. The goal? To create a seamless augmented reality (AR) experience that blends the digital and physical worlds.

While we’re still a few years away from seeing these glasses hit the shelves, the potential is huge. Think about it: you could be walking around, and your glasses could overlay directions, notifications, or even translate signs in real-time. The possibilities are endless, and Apple’s track record suggests they’ll nail the execution.

3. Vision Pro: The Affordable Version

Speaking of Vision Pro, Apple’s mixed-reality headset made waves when it was unveiled. But let’s be real: not everyone can drop a small fortune on a headset. That’s why Apple is reportedly working on a more affordable version of the Vision Pro. While details are still scarce, it’s safe to assume that this version will offer a similar experience but at a price point that won’t make your wallet cry.

For businesses, this could be a game-changer. Imagine using a mixed-reality headset for virtual meetings, product demos, or even training sessions. The possibilities for enterprise applications are endless, and a more affordable Vision Pro could make this tech accessible to a wider audience.

4. AirPods Pro 2: Beta Testing New Features

While we’re all excited about the futuristic gadgets coming in 2027, let’s not forget about the here and now. Apple recently rolled out a new beta update for the AirPods Pro 2, and it’s testing some seriously cool features. One of the most interesting is the hearing aid functionality, which could make the AirPods Pro 2 a must-have for anyone with hearing impairments.

According to Shiftdelete, this beta update is still in the testing phase, but if it works as expected, it could open up a whole new market for Apple. Imagine AirPods that not only play music but also help you hear better. It’s like Apple is turning your earbuds into a mini medical device!

5. iOS 18.1: The Next Big Software Update

Of course, no Apple gadget would be complete without the software to back it up. Apple is currently testing iOS 18.1, and while it’s still in the beta phase, we’re getting closer to a stable release. This update is expected to bring a slew of new features, including better integration with Apple’s upcoming hardware (like those smart glasses we mentioned earlier).

For iPhone users, this means more seamless interactions between your devices, improved performance, and possibly even some new AR features. If you’re the type who loves being on the cutting edge, keep an eye out for iOS 18.1—it’s going to be a game-changer.

The Future Is Apple

So, what’s the takeaway here? Apple is gearing up for some major releases, and whether you’re an AirPods fan, a Vision Pro enthusiast, or just someone who loves cool gadgets, there’s something for everyone. The future of tech is looking bright, and Apple is leading the charge.

But here’s the thing: 2027 might seem far away, but in the world of tech, it’s just around the corner. So, keep your eyes peeled and your wallets ready—because when Apple drops these gadgets, you’re going to want to be first in line.

Wearables