Apple at the WWDC 2025 offered a preview of new functionalities for its AirPods lineup, including studio-quality audio recording and camera remote features, after rumours.
These updates are slated for the AirPods (4th generation), AirPods (4th generation) with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and AirPods Pro (2nd generation), aiming to provide users with enhanced content capture and communication options.
New Audio Recording capabilities
The new audio recording capabilities are designed to allow creators to record high-quality vocals in various settings. This is complemented by the ability to initiate or cease video recordings remotely through a simple press of the AirPods stem. Additionally, improvements in voice quality build upon existing Voice Isolation features.
For content creation, the “studio-quality audio recording” feature is highlighted as a tool for interviewers, podcasters, singers, and other creators to achieve better sound quality, even in mobile or noisy environments, through the integration of Voice Isolation.
Leveraging the H2 chip, beamforming microphones, and computational audio, users are also anticipated to experience more natural vocal texture and clarity during calls made via iPhone, FaceTime, and CallKit-enabled applications.
These advancements in audio recording and call quality are indicated to be compatible across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, extending support to the Camera app, Voice Memos, dictation in Messages, video conferencing platforms such as Webex, and various compatible third-party camera applications.
Camera Remote
The introduction of “camera remote” functionality simplifies content capture from a distance. When utilizing the Camera app or supported third-party camera applications on iPhone or iPad, users will be able to press and hold the AirPods stem to capture a photo or commence a video recording.
A subsequent press-and-hold will stop the recording. This feature is presented as beneficial for users who wish to record themselves performing, enabling synchronization with a soundtrack while simultaneously capturing video.
Pause playing when you fall asleep
If you use AirPods in bed to avoid disturbing your partner, they will now detect when you fall asleep and automatically pause playback across apps.
Availability
The New AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with ANC, and AirPods Pro 2 features will be available this fall through iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26.
The latest software is available for testing through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com, and a public beta will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program next month at beta.apple.com.