iOS 26 Feature Indicates Apple Could Be Creating Cameras for AirPods Pro 3

# iOS 26: A Significant Release with Exciting Enhancements for AirPods

iOS 26 is an essential software update that not only improves the iPhone ecosystem but also brings important updates for related platforms like CarPlay and AirPods. Among the fresh features, the Camera Remote capability stands out, possibly indicating Apple’s future vision for AirPods Pro 3, which could feature embedded cameras.

## AirPods Introduce Camera Remote Capability in iOS 26

One of the most captivating enhancements in iOS 26 is the Camera Remote functionality for AirPods. This feature lets users manage their iPhone’s camera directly from their AirPods, akin to the Camera Remote application found on the Apple Watch.

With this capability, users can snap photos and record videos by merely tapping the stem of their AirPods. The settings offer versatility, enabling users to select either a single tap or a press-and-hold action to activate the camera. As stated in the iOS 26 Settings app:

> “Capture a photo, start or stop recording, and more using either Press Once or Press and Hold. When utilizing AirPods for camera functions, if you choose Press Once, media control gestures will be disabled, and if you choose Press and Hold, listening mode and Siri gestures will be disabled.”

For individuals who do not possess an Apple Watch, this function provides a practical alternative for hands-free photography and videography.

## AirPods Pro 3 with Cameras Anticipated in the Coming Year

The expected debut of AirPods Pro 3 is stirring considerable conjecture. Initially projected for fall 2025, fresh reports hint at a possible launch in 2026. Analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo, have suggested that these new AirPods Pro may include infrared (IR) cameras. Mark Gurman has further indicated that the forthcoming model will integrate external cameras and artificial intelligence to improve user interaction with their surroundings.

Gurman remarks:

> “Apple is developing a new version of the AirPods Pro that employs external cameras and artificial intelligence to comprehend the external environment and relay information to the user.”

Whether the cameras will solely offer IR functionality or additionally support conventional photo and video capture remains uncertain. Nonetheless, the new Camera Remote capability in iOS 26 could provide a helpful mechanism for activating these cameras.

The incorporation of AI features, similar to the visual intelligence technologies on the iPhone, suggests that AirPods Pro 3 may deliver real-time assistance based on the cameras’ captures. Users might find it feasible to press the AirPods stem to take a picture or engage visual intelligence features, paralleling the iPhone’s Camera Control button functionalities.

Notably, the Settings app in iOS 26 features an updated AirPods menu labeled “Camera Control,” which currently lacks additional settings. This could imply that Apple is preparing for advanced camera functionalities in upcoming AirPods iterations.

## Conclusion

The Camera Remote feature in iOS 26 may not merely be a slight enhancement; it might serve as a precursor to the more sophisticated capabilities anticipated in AirPods Pro 3. As Apple perseveres in innovation, the prospect for AirPods to encompass camera technology and AI offers thrilling opportunities for users. Whether this feature signifies a shortage of ideas or a strategic step towards the future remains to be determined.

What are your views on the new AirPods feature in iOS 26? Do you think it is associated with the expected cameras in AirPods Pro 3? Express your thoughts in the comments.

watchOS 26 Improves Control Center Features on Apple Watch

# watchOS 26: An In-Depth Look at New Features

watchOS 26 is poised to be a major upgrade for Apple Watch users, bringing in a host of improvements designed to enhance the overall user experience. Among the key highlights are the integration of Apple Notes, enhancements to the Workout app, and an overhauled Control Center that accommodates third-party controls. This article explores these thrilling new features and their implications for users.

## Apple Notes on Your Wrist

A standout addition in watchOS 26 is the launch of Apple Notes, enabling users to create, view, and organize notes right from their Apple Watch. This feature boosts productivity, permitting users to swiftly write down thoughts or reminders without the need to reach for their iPhone. The advantage of having notes available directly on the wrist is anticipated to be a transformative element for many users.

## Upgraded Workout App

The Workout app is undergoing substantial enhancements in watchOS 26, with a focus on delivering a more exhaustive fitness tracking experience. While detailed information on these upgrades has not been fully revealed, users can expect enhancements in metric tracking, the introduction of new workout types, and potentially improved integration with third-party fitness applications. These updates aim to appeal to a broader spectrum of fitness enthusiasts and provide more precise data for workouts.

## Control Center Overhaul

The Control Center on Apple Watch is set for a significant overhaul in watchOS 26. Following the successful upgrades implemented on the iPhone and iPad, Apple is now extending similar enhancements to the Apple Watch. The most exhilarating feature is the support for third-party controls, enabling developers to create custom controls that can be integrated into the Control Center.

### Third-Party Controls

With watchOS 26, users will have the ability to incorporate custom controls from various third-party applications directly onto their Apple Watch. This feature unlocks new avenues for personalization and functionality, allowing users to customize their Control Center to include the tools they utilize most frequently. Furthermore, even in the absence of developer inputs, users will gain access to new controls that can be imported from their iPhone.

### New Editing Features

To simplify the editing process, watchOS 26 introduces a new ‘From Your iPhone’ section within the Control Center settings. This area will showcase imported controls, making it easier for users to oversee their settings. Additionally, a ‘Suggested’ controls function will be prominently displayed at the top of the editing interface, assisting users in swiftly identifying and adding the most pertinent controls without having to scroll through extensive lists.

## Conclusion

The forthcoming launch of watchOS 26 is set to significantly enhance the Apple Watch experience. With the debut of Apple Notes, refinements to the Workout app, and a more robust Control Center that accommodates third-party controls, users can anticipate a more versatile and efficient device. As the release date draws closer, anticipation grows around the potential of these new features to redefine how users interact with their Apple Watch.

Ongoing Promotions: $150 Discount on 24GB Mac mini, More than $450 Off M3 MacBook Air, Savings on iPad Air, $60 Off Twelve South MagSafe Stand, and Additional Offers

# Current Apple Discounts: Deals on Mac Mini, MacBook Air, iPad Air, and Beyond

Apple fans have the chance to enjoy considerable savings on a range of products today, including the new Mac mini, MacBook Air, and iPad Air models. Here’s a comprehensive summary of the existing deals on offer.

## Apple’s 24GB M4 Mac mini with 512GB SSD: Now $849 ($150 Off)

Amazon has restored a $150 price cut on the **24GB M4 Mac mini** featuring a 512GB SSD, reducing the cost to **$849** from its usual price of **$999**. This promotion aligns with previous offers and remains available until stock runs out. The M4 Mac mini is lauded for its value, particularly due to its enhanced RAM and storage compared to entry-level versions. The 512GB SSD is especially attractive for users needing extra storage for applications and files.

## 24GB M3 MacBook Air: $450 Off

For those seeking a more economical choice, the **24GB M3 MacBook Air** is currently offered at **$1,249**, which amounts to **$450 off** its standard price of **$1,699**. Although this model does not incorporate the latest M4 chip, it still delivers outstanding performance for daily activities. The M3 MacBook Air has garnered favorable reviews for its RAM upgrade, making it a great option for users who want to economize without compromising too much on performance.

## M3 iPad Air: $100 Off, M2 Models Up to $400 Off

The **11-inch 512GB M3 iPad Air** is now available for **$799**, showing a **$100 discount** from its typical price of **$899**. Furthermore, earlier **M2 models** are experiencing even larger discounts, with savings reaching up to **$400**, rendering them a practical choice for users who don’t require the very latest technology but still desire a top-notch tablet experience.

## Twelve South’s 15W HiRise 2 Deluxe Wireless Charging Station: $60 (25% Off)

Besides Apple offerings, the **Twelve South 15W HiRise 2 Deluxe Wireless Charging Station** is currently available for **$59.99**, reflecting a **25% discount** from its normal price of **$80**. This charging station accommodates both iPhones and AirPods, making it a flexible addition to any tech setup.

## Conclusion

These promotions present a fantastic opportunity for Apple enthusiasts to upgrade their devices or accessories at lower prices. Whether you’re interested in the newest Mac mini, a dependable MacBook Air, or a multifunctional iPad, significant savings are available today. Make sure to take action swiftly, as these deals may not remain for long.

An Intelligent Fitness Gadget That Seamlessly Enhances the Apple Watch

### Avelo Running: The Future of Intelligent Running Footwear

**Update:** Avelo Running is on the verge of making its debut with an already successful [Kickstarter campaign](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/avelorunning/avelo-meet-the-worlds-smartest-running-shoe) that surpassed its target within hours of its initiation. Discover more about the initiative and [contribute your support to participate in the journey](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/avelorunning/avelo-meet-the-worlds-smartest-running-shoe).

Avelo Running is a fitness-oriented startup that [has recently emerged from stealth](https://avelorunning.com) to reveal its inaugural product. The offering from the company has the capacity to serve as the ideal running partner for Apple Watch users. However, any runner with a smartphone can gain advantages without needing to carry a phone or watch during their run.

Avelo caught my attention as soon as the company appeared on my radar—prior to disclosing their actual product—yet I was concerned that their running solution might require me to choose between it and my Apple Watch.

I’m uncertain I would have completed my first mile without the Apple Watch, [let alone my first 5K or seventh half marathon](https://9to5mac.com/2025/04/24/reflecting-on-apple-watch-at-10-how-it-made-me-a-half-marathon-runner/), thus creating a genuine product loyalty that has developed over time. The watch serves more than just a run tracker for me, and I am not eager to add more technology to my person.

However, Avelo isn’t attempting to compete for wrist space. Instead, the company will be up against a market where brand loyalty is held in even higher regard: running footwear.

In my view, Avelo Running shoes are the spiritual descendants of the [Nike+iPod Sport Kit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nike%2BiPod) from nearly two decades ago.

Nike provided a connected running system that was quite basic by 2025’s technological standards. It included a single sensor that could be attached to or embedded within a running shoe and a receiver that paired with an iPod. This system recorded workout duration, distance covered, pace, and calorie expenditure with varying degrees of accuracy.

These days, similar running tracking metrics boast significantly improved fidelity thanks to heart rate sensors, GPS, and sophisticated algorithms. Apple has also extended the watch’s capabilities beyond capturing elementary workout data. Now, the Apple Watch indicates running power and aspects of running form such as vertical oscillation, ground contact time, and stride length. Yet, even Apple admits that a suite of sensors on your wrist cannot measure all workout data. This is why the Apple Watch can connect with Bluetooth accessories for activities like cycling, for example.

Avelo’s intelligent running shoes might be comparable to those accessories for runners: purpose-built hardware that augments what a smartwatch can accomplish, without being in competition with it. Moreover, they aren’t just standard smart shoes—they are primarily designed as supertrainers, crafted to be favored by runners before any technological considerations are integrated.

That addresses merely the hardware. Avelo intends not only to gather more running data with greater precision but also to offer feedback and coaching that could enhance your running performance. This is a lofty objective requiring a mix of expertise and cutting-edge technology that hasn’t been assembled in this specific manner before.

For this reason, Avelo is adopting an Apple-like full-stack strategy. The firm is not merely inserting a chip into a conventional shoe. They are developing all components—from the footwear to the sensor array to the software layer that transforms biomechanics data into actionable insights. The team behind it unites experts in footwear design, sports science, and software engineering, aiming to provide lab-quality data in a product accessible to all runners.

Unlike virtually every other smart product available today, Avelo’s smart shoes will not require recharging. The battery is engineered to endure the entire lifespan of the shoe. This is significant for a product that aims to integrate seamlessly into your daily routine. Another crucial detail is that each shoe is equipped with its own sensor. While this might seem like a given for a product that wants to create the most comprehensive view of your running performance, even Nike’s system from 2006 operated with a single sensor per pair of shoes.

Avelo Running undoubtedly has a significant challenge ahead. Convincing runners to test any product is daunting enough. Gaining their trust with the material that connects them to the ground? That presents an entirely different obstacle, but one that Avelo Running aspires to overcome.

Avelo Running has only recently stepped out of stealth mode and publicly showcased their developments. For now, the best way to express interest is to [sign up for free to track Avelo’s journey](https://avelorunning.com). You can also follow Avelo Running on

iPhone 17 Pro Unveils Four Additional Camera Features Scheduled for Launch This Autumn

Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone 17 reveal is only a few months away, with a launch event anticipated in early September. Here are four new camera enhancements expected to be included with the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

## #1: Enhanced 48MP telephoto

Since the launch of the iPhone 11 Pro in 2019, the three-camera setup on the rear of the iPhone has become standard for Pro variants. However, progress on each of these three cameras often occurs at different intervals.

For instance, the iPhone 14 Pro introduced a 48MP sensor for the primary “wide” camera lens. Then, last year, the iPhone 16 Pro upgraded the ultra-wide lens to 48MP.

Now, the iPhone 17 Pro is anticipated to round out the trio by upgrading the telephoto lens to 48MP as well. This modification could potentially influence the default zoom setting in the Camera app, which is presently 5x.

## #2: Multi-camera video recording

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are reported to receive a unique new feature in the Camera app: the ability to record video using multiple cameras simultaneously.

While third-party applications have long facilitated simultaneous video capture, this capability has never been integrated into Apple’s own Camera app.

The reason Apple may restrict this feature to new devices is unclear, suggesting there may be new functionalities with multi-camera recording that have yet to be revealed.

## #3: Fresh 24MP TrueDepth front camera

It has been some time since Apple implemented significant updates to the iPhone’s front-facing TrueDepth camera.

Fortunately, this year appears to bring about that change.

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, along with the more budget-friendly 17 and 17 Air, are all expected to feature a completely new 24MP TrueDepth camera.

The existing front-facing camera remains at 12MP, a standard that has persisted for years.

## #4: Revamped camera ‘island’

The phrase ‘camera bump’ has been associated with the iPhone for over a decade, dating back to when the camera on the iPhone 6 protruded from the device’s body.

Arguably, the term ‘bump’ does not adequately capture recent iPhone aesthetics, as that protrusion has grown substantially.

However, with the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, the term ‘island’ might be more fitting.

Apple intends to extend the camera bump into a full-width camera ‘bar’ or ‘island’ across the back of the iPhone. This alteration will result in certain components, like the flash, being positioned further away from the cameras.

The specific functional advantages of this redesign are still unknown, but it’s reasonable to assume that Apple has a valid rationale for this change.

## iPhone 17 Pro camera features: conclusion

Camera advancements are consistently a significant highlight of new iPhones, and this year seems no exception. The ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air will likely entice many Pro users. Yet, when it comes to achieving the optimal camera system, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will remain the leading choices.