Apple‘s iOS 26 beta brings exciting new AirPods features that you can access right now, months before the official fall release. These innovative additions enhance your audio experience and expand AirPods functionality beyond traditional listening.
4 New AirPods Features in iOS 26
The latest beta update introduces game-changing capabilities that make AirPods more intelligent and versatile than ever before.
| Feature | Description | Compatible Models |
|---|---|---|
| Pause Audio for Sleep | Automatically pauses media when you fall asleep | All AirPods models |
| Camera Remote | Use AirPods stem as camera shutter button | All AirPods models |
| Keep Audio in Headphones | Prevents audio switching to other devices | All AirPods models |
| Improved Call Quality | Enhanced vocal clarity with H2 chip | AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2 |
How to Access These Features Now
Getting these features requires two simple steps: installing iOS 26 beta and enabling AirPods beta firmware updates.
Step 1: Install iOS 26 Beta
First, you’ll need to install the iOS 26 beta on your iPhone or iPad. Apple has made beta software available to both developers and regular users for free. The public beta will arrive in July for those preferring to wait.
Step 2: Enable AirPods Beta Firmware
Once running iOS 26 beta, navigate to Settings > [Your Name]’s AirPods > AirPods Beta Updates and toggle the switch on. Your AirPods will automatically receive the firmware update when placed in their charging case near your device.
Feature Details and Settings
Pause Audio for Sleep works seamlessly while you’re in bed, detecting when you fall asleep and pausing your content automatically. Find this in Settings > [Your Name]’s AirPods > Pause Media When Falling Asleep.
Camera Remote transforms your AirPods into a wireless camera trigger. Simply press and hold the stem to capture photos or start video recordings through the Camera app.
Keep Audio in Headphones prevents frustrating audio switching when other devices connect to your iPhone, ensuring your listening experience remains uninterrupted.
For more iOS updates and Apple device tips, explore our iOS guides and AirPods tutorials.
Remember, these are beta features and may not work consistently. Apple’s official beta program provides additional information about participating in beta testing.
FAQs
Can I get these features without installing iOS 26 beta?
No, these AirPods features require iOS 26 beta and the corresponding AirPods firmware update to function.
Are these features available on all AirPods models?
Most features work on all AirPods, but improved call quality requires AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 2 with H2 chip.
