Apple is significantly enhancing the capabilities of its latest earbuds, bringing powerful new features that transform them from simple listening devices into versatile tools for communication and content creation. Previewed alongside iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26, the upcoming free firmware update for AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and AirPods Pro 2 introduces studio-quality audio recording and a convenient camera remote function.
These updates are set to arrive in the fall of 2025, but developers can access them now, with a public beta coming next month. Together, these features promise to improve call clarity and offer innovative ways for users to capture photos and videos using their AirPods.
Unleashing Studio-Quality Audio Recording
One of the most significant additions is the ability to capture studio-quality vocals directly through supported AirPods. This feature is particularly exciting for content creators like podcasters, singers, interviewers, and anyone needing high-fidelity voice capture on the go. It allows users to record clear, rich audio even when they aren’t near their primary recording equipment.
Building upon the existing Voice Isolation technology, this new capability leverages the power of the H2 chip, beamforming microphones, and advanced computational audio to isolate the user’s voice from background noise. This sophisticated processing results in remarkably clear and natural-sounding audio not only for dedicated recording tasks but also for everyday conversations. Users will notice improved voice texture and clarity during standard iPhone calls, FaceTime calls, and within CallKit-enabled third-party applications.
The studio-quality audio recording and enhanced call features are compatible across the Apple ecosystem, working seamlessly with iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Supported applications include the native Camera app for video sound, Voice Memos, dictation features in apps like Messages, video conferencing platforms such as Webex, and various compatible third-party camera and audio recording apps.
Remote Camera Control: Capture Photos & Videos Hands-Free
Capturing the perfect shot or starting a video recording from a distance just got much easier with the new camera remote feature. Supported AirPods can now act as a remote shutter for your iPhone or iPad camera.
Using the native Camera app or compatible third-party camera applications on an iPhone or iPad, users can simply press and hold the stem of their AirPod to trigger a photo capture or start recording a video. Another press and hold gesture on the stem will stop an ongoing video recording.
This functionality is incredibly practical for a variety of scenarios. Taking group photos where you want to be in the shot, recording yourself singing or dancing in sync with music, capturing videos from awkward angles, or creating content like TikToks and Instagram Reels that require distance from the device all become significantly more convenient without needing timers or physically interacting with the phone’s screen.
Availability and Supported Models
These powerful new features are exclusive to the latest generation of Apple’s wireless earbuds: the AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with ANC, and the second-generation AirPods Pro (AirPods Pro 2). Older AirPods models will not receive support for these capabilities.
The updates will be delivered as a free firmware update for the supported models this fall, coinciding with the public release of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26. For those eager to try them sooner, the features are available for testing now through the Apple Developer Program, with a public beta scheduled to roll out next month via the Apple Beta Software Program. As always, availability may vary by language and region due to local laws and regulations.
With these additions, Apple is further expanding the utility of AirPods, making them indispensable tools not just for listening and communication, but for comprehensive content creation as well.
