29-07-2025
iOS 26 Public Beta: AirPods Get a Major Upgrade
Apple has unveiled its first-ever public beta for AirPods, marking a significant step forward in wireless audio technology. This beta release, compatible with the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, introduces a range of features designed to enhance usability and deepen integration within the Apple ecosystem. To participate, users must update their iPhone to iOS 26 or their Mac to macOS 26. In the video below, HalfManHalfTech delves into the most notable updates and their potential to redefine your AirPods experience.
Watch this video on YouTube. Public Beta Access: Open to All Users
For the first time, Apple has extended its AirPods beta program beyond developers, making it accessible to the general public. This beta supports the AirPods Pro 2 (both USB-C and Lightning models) and AirPods 4. Once your iPhone or Mac is updated to iOS 26 or macOS 26, you can activate the beta directly through your device's settings. This initiative not only provides early access to Apple's latest features but also allows users to contribute valuable feedback, shaping the final product. Key Features in the iOS 26 AirPods Beta
The iOS 26 AirPods beta introduces a variety of features aimed at improving convenience, functionality, and integration across Apple devices. Here's a detailed look at the standout updates: Charging Notifications: Stay informed about your AirPods' battery status with alerts when they are fully charged or running low. This feature ensures you're always prepared, reducing the likelihood of interruptions during use.
Stay informed about your AirPods' battery status with alerts when they are fully charged or running low. This feature ensures you're always prepared, reducing the likelihood of interruptions during use. Sleep Detection: AirPods can now detect when you fall asleep and automatically pause media playback. This is particularly useful for users who enjoy listening to music or podcasts as they wind down for the night.
AirPods can now detect when you fall asleep and automatically pause media playback. This is particularly useful for users who enjoy listening to music or podcasts as they wind down for the night. Studio-Quality Recording: Enhanced audio recording capabilities deliver studio-quality sound for voice memos, video recordings, and third-party apps. This feature is especially beneficial for content creators and professionals seeking high-quality audio.
Enhanced audio recording capabilities deliver studio-quality sound for voice memos, video recordings, and third-party apps. This feature is especially beneficial for content creators and professionals seeking high-quality audio. Camera Controls: Use your AirPods to capture photos, start or stop video recordings, and interact with third-party apps like Instagram and TikTok. This hands-free functionality adds convenience and versatility to capturing moments.
Use your AirPods to capture photos, start or stop video recordings, and interact with third-party apps like Instagram and TikTok. This hands-free functionality adds convenience and versatility to capturing moments. Automatic CarPlay Switching: Seamlessly transfer audio to a CarPlay-enabled vehicle when you enter, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and making sure a smooth transition between devices.
Seamlessly transfer audio to a CarPlay-enabled vehicle when you enter, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and making sure a smooth transition between devices. Apple Watch Integration: Your Apple Watch can now act as a microphone for live listening or stream audio directly to your AirPods. This feature also supports hearing aids, enhancing accessibility for users with hearing impairments. Enhanced Personalization for a Tailored Experience
The beta introduces a range of customizable settings, allowing users to fine-tune their AirPods experience. For instance, you can toggle sleep detection, adjust CarPlay audio preferences, or modify other features to better suit your needs. This level of personalization ensures that the new functionalities adapt seamlessly to your lifestyle, offering a more intuitive and user-centric experience. Developer Mode: Unlocking Advanced Features
For advanced users and tech enthusiasts, the beta includes a developer mode that provides access to experimental features and manual activation options. This mode is ideal for those who wish to explore the full potential of their AirPods while offering detailed feedback to Apple during the testing phase. It also serves as a valuable tool for developers looking to optimize app compatibility with the new AirPods features. Considerations and Areas for Refinement
While the new features introduced in the iOS 26 AirPods beta are promising, some—such as studio-quality recording and Apple Watch integration—are still in the testing phase and may require further refinement. Apple encourages users to share their experiences and provide feedback to help optimize these functionalities before their official release. As with any beta program, occasional bugs or performance issues are to be expected, so users should approach the beta with an understanding of its developmental nature. Shaping the Future of Wireless Audio
The iOS 26 AirPods public beta represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of wireless audio technology. By offering innovative features such as charging notifications, sleep detection, studio-quality recording, and seamless CarPlay switching, Apple aims to make the AirPods experience more intuitive, versatile, and integrated than ever before. Participating in the beta not only allows you to explore these advancements firsthand but also provides an opportunity to contribute to their development, playing a role in shaping the future of Apple's audio technology.
Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on AirPods public beta.
Source & Image Credit: HalfManHalfTech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News
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