With the launch of iOS 26, Apple is also refreshing the AirPods firmware, introducing multiple new features for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. Here are all the enhancements you can anticipate in the current update:
– **Live Translation:** First seen with AirPods Pro 3, Apple is now extending real-time conversation translation to its other earbuds equipped with H2 chips. Speech can be translated across English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.
– **Studio-Quality Recording:** Apple claims that the microphones in AirPods now provide even superior quality for voice recordings, making the earbuds ideal for interviews, podcasts, and more.
– **Camera Remote:** When your AirPods are connected to an iPhone running iOS 26, you can press and hold on the AirPods stem to initiate video recording or capture a photo.
– **Sleep Detection:** AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 have the ability to automatically recognize when you fall asleep and will pause songs, podcasts, or videos. You must navigate to your AirPods settings and enable “Pause Media When Falling Asleep.”
– **Charging Reminders:** iOS 26 introduces a notification reminding you to charge your AirPods case, ensuring you remain powered when you wish to enjoy your favorite music.
– **CarPlay Adjustment:** iOS 26 also includes a new “Keep Audio in Headphones” option, allowing you to take calls on your earbuds instead of using the car’s speakers while using CarPlay.
Next, we will guide you on how to manually update your AirPods.
**How to update your AirPods firmware**
Earlier this year, Apple explained how to properly update the AirPods firmware. Unlike an iOS update, users cannot simply navigate to Settings and manually select to obtain the new version. However, updating your earbuds is relatively straightforward. Follow the steps below once you have iOS 26 installed on your device:
1. Ensure your AirPods are within Bluetooth range of an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that is connected to Wi-Fi.
2. Place your AirPods in the charging case and close the lid.
3. Connect the case to power using a charging cable and USB charger or port.
4. Keep the lid closed and wait at least 30 minutes for the firmware to update.
5. Open the charging case to reconnect your AirPods to your device.
6. Verify the firmware version again to confirm the update.
It is essential to note that these features are accessible for AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4. We will provide more information if additional new features are revealed by Apple for its earbuds in the latest firmware.
