Apple is exploring a batch of new features for upcoming AirPods iterations, including body temperature sensing and USB-C charging, a topic discussed on Bloomberg informant Mark Gurman’s mailing list. The report outlines intentions to broaden health and accessibility capabilities while also offering more affordable models and adopting USB-C as a charging standard.
The claim is that the earphones could estimate a user’s body temperature by measuring from the ear canal area. Insiders suggest this approach would yield more accurate readings than wrist-based measurements used by Apple’s wearables, such as the Apple Watch.
Gurman notes that Apple is testing software-level features within the wireless headset designed to support hearing health. In practical terms, the device may diagnose early signs of hearing issues through a dedicated app that analyzes audio signals at specific frequencies. If realized, the headset could serve as a low-cost alternative to traditional hearing aids for some users.
Another point raised is that Apple might tailor the product for broader consumer use while maintaining a focus on accessibility. The broader strategy appears to combine health monitoring with assistive listening technologies, creating a device that not only plays audio but also assists people who experience hearing challenges.
There is a sense that Apple’s roadmap could include less expensive options and greater interoperability, broadening the appeal of AirPods beyond their current audience. The conversation around these potential features continues to surface in industry chatter, with insiders weighing the benefits and practical hurdles of such capabilities. Some speculation also touches on future color variants and customization options, though these rumors carry varying degrees of credibility.