Apple’s AirPods Just Got Smarter with New Camera Trick, Studio Mic and Sleep Detection

Apple updated firmware for AirPods 4, AirPods 4 ANC, and AirPods Pro 2 this fall, delivered through iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26. Packed into this free upgrade are three standout features listed as below –

• Remote camera trigger

AirPods now mimic EarPods functionality, letting users press and hold the stem to take photos or begin and end video recording on iPhone or iPad . Ideal for capturing group shots or solo performances without juggling the device.

• Studio-quality audio recording

Devices gain new mic capabilities built on the H2 chip, beam-forming mics, and computational audio. Users can record interviews, podcasts, or music with cleaner voice capture and background noise rejection, usable across Camera, Voice Memos, FaceTime, FaceTime Audio, and CallKit apps.

• Auto-pause when asleep

AirPods will detect when wearers fall asleep and pause audio automatically, which is helpful for those who listen before drifting off.

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Additional refinements include seamless switching between AirPods and CarPlay speakers, and a new setting that keeps audio in AirPods even when other Bluetooth devices connect. For developers, Apple also introduced a manual firmware update interface in Settings.

These changes won’t require new hardware – compatible models get them via this fall’s update. Developer betas begin now, public release likely this autumn. The enhancements stay in line with Apple’s strategy of incremental upgrades on mature products, providing real-world benefits without flashy redesigns.

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