From Camera Remote to Studio-Quality Audio: iOS 2026 Set to Elevate Apple AirPods with These Upgrades
Apple is gearing up to launch iOS 26, bringing a host of enhancements to its ecosystem. While the company has already previewed several OS-level improvements, AirPods are also expected to receive significant upgrades, further refining their functionality and audio performance.
Based on recent reports, the next-generation AirPods (4th gen and Pro 2) will integrate new features following the iOS 26 rollout. Here’s a closer look at the potential advancements users can anticipate.
1. AirPods as a Camera Remote
One of the most practical additions could be the ability to use AirPods as a camera remote. After updating to iOS 26, users may simply connect their AirPods to an iPhone, open the Camera app, and press and hold the stem to capture photos or start/stop video recording.
While the Apple Watch already offers remote camera control, the AirPods’ implementation is expected to be more instantaneous—eliminating the need for multi-step activation.
2. Studio-Quality Audio Recording
The AirPods 4 and Pro 2 are rumored to support studio-grade audio recording, ideal for podcasts, interviews, music, and video content. Leveraging Voice Isolation, background noise will be minimized, ensuring crisp vocal capture even in dynamic environments.
This enhancement will benefit creators using iPhone, iPad, or Mac for recording via Camera, Voice Memos, Messages dictation, or third-party apps.
3. Enhanced Call and Voice Clarity
Powered by the H2 chip, the new AirPods are expected to deliver clearer, more natural vocal reproduction during FaceTime calls, standard phone calls, and CallKit-supported apps like Zoom.
4. Seamless Beta Updates for AirPods
With iOS 26, Apple may introduce a streamlined process for installing beta firmware updates on AirPods. Users will reportedly access this via an updated interface in the Settings app when their AirPods are connected.
5. Auto-Pause Media During Sleep
A new "Pause Media When Falling Asleep" feature could automatically halt playback when the system detects the user has dozed off—whether listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks.
Enabled through AirPods settings, this function will not only bookmark playback progress but also conserve battery life by preventing overnight usage. (Note: Requires the latest AirPods firmware and iOS 26.)
6. "Keep Audio in Headphones" for CarPlay
A long-standing frustration with AirPods and CarPlay may finally be resolved. The new "Keep Audio in Headphones" option will prevent audio from automatically switching to car speakers or Bluetooth when entering a vehicle, ensuring uninterrupted playback in the earbuds.
Important Disclaimer
While these features are highly anticipated, Apple has not officially confirmed them. This compilation is based on leaks and rumors, so readers are advised to treat the information with cautious optimism.