New Enhancements for AirPods in iOS 26: Five Features, Three Necessitating H2 Chip

The era of purchasing headphones with a fixed feature set is a thing of the past. Particularly since the introduction of AirPods Pro 2, Apple has been actively enhancing AirPods products with new functionalities through firmware updates. In iOS 26, there are five additional features on the way—but more than half are restricted to AirPods equipped with an H2 chip.

## iOS 26 maintains the trend of introducing new AirPods functionalities

In terms of AirPods enhancements, Apple has developed a routine of significant annual feature releases.

For instance, iOS 18 brought nonverbal Siri interactions, Voice Isolation, and enhanced Personalized Spatial Audio. iOS 17 saw the addition of Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Personalized Volume.

So, what’s in store for this year?

Five upgrades for AirPods are set to arrive in iOS 26:

– Automatic pausing while you sleep
– Studio-quality audio recording
– Camera remote
– Automatic switching for CarPlay
– Improved voice quality during calls

These new features will be available as complimentary updates through the new iOS 26-related firmware.

However, several of these upgrades are only applicable to specific AirPods models.

## AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 will solely receive three new features

Among the five new features in iOS 26, three will be exclusive to the H2 chip:

1. Studio-quality audio recording
2. Camera remote
3. Enhanced voice quality

At present, Apple’s H2 chip is found only in two models: AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4.

This means that AirPods Max (including the new USB-C variant), AirPods 3 and earlier models, as well as first-generation AirPods Pro will not have access to these upcoming features.

Here’s Apple’s press release attesting to this:

> Apple today previewed studio-quality audio recording and camera remote features for AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and AirPods Pro 2, providing new means to capture content and enhancing communication for users. Updates to audio recording allow creators to capture studio-quality vocals on the move, and initiate or halt video recordings from afar with a simple press of the AirPods stem. Building on the advantages of Voice Isolation, AirPods users will also experience even clearer calls with improved voice quality.

For additional details on the features coming in iOS 26, check our previous coverage here.

PSA: If you’ve been waiting to upgrade your AirPods to a newer model, Amazon is currently offering some of the most impressive AirPods deals we’ve ever seen.

Which new AirPods features are you most eager to try? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Fresh Features and Enhancements for the Phone Application in iOS 26

Apple’s Phone application is undergoing its most significant modifications to date this year with iOS 26, featuring a completely redesigned interface, call screening options, Apple Intelligence enhancements, and more. Here’s all the new functionality arriving in your Phone app in iOS 26.

## Entirely new interface

Apple is fully revamping the Phone app’s design in iOS 26. Unlike last year’s substantial overhaul of Photos, this time the new layout will be completely optional. Upon the initial installation of iOS 26 and after launching Phone, you’ll be prompted to decide if you wish to activate the new design. All users of iOS 26 will be presented with Liquid Glass components and other slight UI modifications within Phone, but you have the option to embrace Apple’s fresh ‘Unified’ layout or retain what is now referred to as the ‘Classic’ view. The decision is reversible, enabling you to toggle between the layouts at any moment. If you select the new design, the Favorites, Recents, and Voicemail tabs will merge into a newly introduced ‘Calls’ tab, which now acts as a central hub in the application.

## Screening calls from unknown numbers

iOS 26 debuts a new ‘Screen Unknown Callers’ feature. Your iPhone will take incoming calls from unidentified numbers and automatically inquire about who is calling and for what reason, giving you insight prior to the first ring. This function boosts your capability to determine whether to pick up or not. Furthermore, the new Messages app feature that organizes unknown numbers into a distinct section will also be accessible in the Phone app.

## Hold Assist alleviates long waits

The Phone app in iOS 26 incorporates a ‘Hold Assist’ functionality. When placed on hold during a call, Hold Assist allows you to hang up and continue with your activities. Your iPhone will monitor for a live operator to be available and will ring to alert you when someone is ready to converse.

## Apple Intelligence for translation and voicemail

With the aid of Apple Intelligence, the Phone app can introduce two new capabilities in iOS 26:
1. Live Translation facilitates calls with individuals who speak different languages, utilizing AI for spoken translations.
2. Voicemail transcripts will now feature AI-generated summaries, assisting you in swiftly grasping the intent of the call.

These capabilities will be restricted to newer iPhone models that are compatible with AI.

## Phone app expands to Mac and iPad

The enhancements will extend beyond the iPhone; Apple is also introducing its Phone app to the iPad and Mac. Leveraging existing Continuity features that allow the making and receiving of iPhone calls on other Apple devices, a dedicated Phone app will now be available in iPadOS 26 and macOS Tahoe. Users can look forward to similar functionalities to those found on the iPhone, together with a new layout that better takes advantage of the larger displays of the Mac and iPad.

What new Phone features in iOS 26 are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments.

BLUETTI Provides Discounts of Up to 65% on Portable Power and Home Backup Solutions for Prime Day

**BLUETTI Prime Day Promotions: Unbeatable Discounts on Portable Energy Solutions**

This year’s BLUETTI Prime Day presents remarkable savings, with discounts reaching up to 65% on their full range of portable power items. Whether you’re preparing for summer escapades or anticipating sudden power failures, BLUETTI offers dependable energy solutions to ensure your devices remain operational. Moreover, 9to5Mac readers can take advantage of an exclusive additional 5% discount by using the code **9TO5MAC5OFF** at checkout.

### Elite 100 V2: Miniature Power for Any Excursion

Leading this Prime Day event is the **Elite 100 V2**, a compact powerhouse ideal for camping, tailgating, and short-term home backup. This model upgrades the popular AC180, delivering enhanced performance in a design that is about 30% smaller than its forerunner.

Despite its small footprint, the Elite 100 V2 offers a powerful 1,800W output across 11 versatile outlets, suitable for running induction cooktops, kettles, and coffee makers. With a peak capacity of 3,600W, it can support high-draw appliances such as portable air conditioners and full-size refrigerators. Quick recharging is possible, taking as little as 70 minutes with a 1,000W solar input, making it perfect for rapid stops or brief blackouts.

**Special launch price: $399 (50% discount) — valid until July 11.**

### Elite 200 V2: Unmatched Power at an Unprecedented Price

If you need more power for backyard BBQs, rooftop movie nights, or dependable off-the-grid energy, the **Elite 200 V2** is a must-have. This Prime Day, it’s offered at its lowest price ever of just $699, a staggering 59% off.

With a capacity of 2,073.6Wh and a 2,600W output (with a peak of 3,900W), it can support up to nine devices simultaneously, easily powering electric grills, portable coolers, and complete camping cooking systems. The Elite 200 V2 incorporates an EV-grade battery designed for an impressive 17-year lifespan, providing long-term reliability. Its ultra-quiet performance at just 16dB allows for emission-free cooking and power without disturbing your environment.

### More Prime Day Discounts: Energy for Every Requirement

BLUETTI’s Prime Day deals cover a diverse selection of popular models, ensuring there’s an option for every requirement and budget. Here are more fantastic offers available from July 8th to 11th:

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tvOS 26 Beta 3 Now Available for Apple TV 4K Users

### The Upcoming Major Update for Apple TV is tvOS 26, and Beta 3 has Arrived

Apple has launched tvOS 26 beta 3 for developers, merely a day after revealing new beta software for its other platforms. This update is part of Apple’s continuous improvements to its Apple TV ecosystem, anticipated to debut new hardware later this year with the introduction of the first new Apple TV 4K model in three years.

#### Notable Features of tvOS 26

tvOS 26 brings forth multiple substantial changes, some of which hint that the forthcoming hardware could feature a built-in camera. Whether or not users choose the new Apple TV box, tvOS 26 guarantees a variety of upgrades that enhance the overall user experience.

Among the new features are:

– Enhanced user interface components
– Improved app performance and reliability
– Fresh content discovery alternatives
– Upgraded support for gaming and streaming platforms

Most of these enhancements will be compatible with all Apple TV devices. However, specific features will be reserved for the latest Apple TV 4K models. It is also feasible that Apple may unveil additional features during the introduction of its new hardware.

#### Beta Testing and Upcoming Updates

The current beta 3 iteration may incorporate further features and adjustments as Apple persistently fine-tunes the software. With the fall launch period nearing, users can look forward to continual updates and possible new functionalities.

For those keen on testing tvOS 26, a public beta version is predicted to become available in July. Until then, developers can utilize the latest beta, but they should be ready for potential bugs and performance issues typical of beta software.

#### User Feedback

Users who have installed tvOS 26 beta 3 are encouraged to provide their feedback and any noticeable changes or new features in the comments section. This input is crucial as Apple strives to finalize the software before its official launch.

#### Top Apple TV 4K Accessories

As the Apple TV ecosystem progresses, users might also want to investigate the best accessories to elevate their viewing experience. From remote controls to audio systems, the right accessories can greatly enhance how users engage with their Apple TV.

In summary, tvOS 26 beta 3 represents an exciting advancement for Apple TV users, with promising features and enhancements on the way. Whether you are a developer or a casual user, the forthcoming updates are sure to enrich the Apple TV experience.