How to Get New AirPods Features with iOS 26 Beta
If you're eager to try the new AirPods features iOS 26 brings, you don't have to wait for the full release this fall. Apple’s iOS 26 beta is already available, giving users early access to four exciting AirPods upgrades — from smarter sleep controls to better call quality. Whether you're using AirPods Pro, AirPods 3rd Gen, or the upcoming AirPods 4, you can unlock these features today by installing the beta software on your iPhone or iPad. In this guide, we’ll explain what the new AirPods features are, how to access them now, and what devices support them — all while keeping things simple and practical.
Image : GoogleNew AirPods Features in iOS 26 You Can Use Today
The new AirPods features iOS 26 introduces are built for convenience, audio quality, and smarter everyday use. First, there's Pause Audio for Sleep — a standout upgrade for bedtime listeners. When your AirPods detect you've fallen asleep while playing music or a podcast, playback will automatically pause. You can enable this by going to:
Settings → [Your Name]’s AirPods → Pause Media When Falling Asleep.
Another highlight is the Camera Remote feature. You can now use your AirPods as a remote shutter for your iPhone or iPad’s Camera app. Just press and hold the stem to snap a photo or start recording. It’s incredibly useful for group shots or hands-free videos:
Settings → [Your Name]’s AirPods → Camera Remote.
There’s also a smart new toggle called Keep Audio in Headphones, which ensures that your AirPods remain the primary audio source — even when your phone tries to switch to car speakers or other connected devices. This gives you more control over where your audio plays:
Settings → General → AirPlay & Continuity → Keep Audio with Headphones.
Lastly, Improved Call Quality comes via the H2 chip found in newer models like AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. This enhancement improves vocal clarity and texture during calls, FaceTime, and apps like Zoom — no settings changes required.
How to Get These Features: Install iOS 26 Beta
To try these new AirPods features iOS 26 enables, your iPhone or iPad must be running iOS 26 beta or iPadOS 26 beta. Thankfully, Apple has made the beta version accessible to everyone — not just developers. Here's how to get started:
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Backup your iPhone: Since this is beta software, it's best to have a recent backup via iCloud or your computer.
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Enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program: Visit Apple’s official beta website and sign in with your Apple ID.
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Download the beta profile: Follow the prompts to install the iOS 26 beta profile on your device.
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Install iOS 26 beta: Go to Settings → General → Software Update, and you’ll see the iOS 26 beta available for download. Install it just like a regular update.
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Update your AirPods: Make sure your AirPods are connected and charging near your iPhone. Firmware updates usually install automatically when conditions are met.
Once everything is updated, your AirPods will have access to the new features — no extra steps required beyond enabling them in Settings.
Which AirPods Support These iOS 26 Features?
Most of the new AirPods features iOS 26 introduces are available on a range of recent models, though there are some differences. Features like Pause Audio for Sleep and Camera Remote work on AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 3, and the expected AirPods 4. However, Improved Call Quality requires the H2 chip, meaning it’s exclusive to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4.
The Keep Audio in Headphones setting is software-based and available more broadly across AirPods models — as long as your device is running iOS 26. Keep in mind that these features rely on both firmware and system software updates. If you're not seeing them, your AirPods might need a firmware refresh, which happens in the background when they’re connected and charging.
Also, remember: while installing beta software is free and fairly stable in 2025, it’s not completely bug-free. Some users may prefer to wait for the official iOS 26 release in the fall — but if you’re an early adopter or tech enthusiast, these AirPods upgrades are well worth trying now.
Why These Features Matter for Everyday Users
These new AirPods features iOS 26 offers are more than flashy updates — they genuinely improve how we use AirPods day to day. The Sleep Audio Pause feature is a subtle but meaningful way to enhance your sleep routine, especially for those who listen to podcasts or ambient noise to fall asleep. It saves battery and avoids the awkward morning realization that you’ve slept through hours of playback.
Camera Remote turns your AirPods into a discreet remote for group photos or creative content — a small feature with major utility. And Keep Audio in Headphones finally addresses a common frustration: losing audio to car Bluetooth when you didn’t want it to switch. These improvements show that Apple is focusing on smart, user-centered updates, not just big overhauls.
Lastly, the call quality boost driven by the H2 chip helps deliver a richer, more natural sound for remote work, social calls, or voice recordings. With more people relying on AirPods throughout the day — for calls, Zoom meetings, and even content creation — this is a practical and welcome upgrade.
If you’re excited about what’s next for Apple’s wireless audio experience, trying the new AirPods features iOS 26 offers today is a great way to get ahead. With smarter sleep detection, better call clarity, and clever controls, these updates are designed to make your AirPods feel more personalized and intuitive. Just be sure to follow the beta installation steps carefully and check compatibility for your specific AirPods model. Happy exploring — your next-gen audio experience starts now.
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