Apple is working on major AirPods updates for iOS 26, including sleep auto-pause, head gestures, camera controls, and creator-friendly mic enhancements. Here’s what might be coming at WWDC 2025.
HIGHLIGHTS
- New head gestures to control volume and conversations without using hands.
- Sleep detection to auto-pause media when you fall asleep.
- Camera control via AirPods stem for remote photo capturing.
- Studio-quality mic mode for creators and content recording.
- Better support in classrooms for shared iPad pairing.
Apple Could Bring Major AirPods Upgrades at WWDC 2025
With WWDC 2025 just around the corner, a fresh set of AirPods features might be on the way, aimed at making your listening experience more hands-free, more intelligent, and more useful in everyday scenarios.
According to new findings by 9to5Mac, Apple is testing five new AirPods features that could debut as early as the WWDC keynote on June 9. While none of these features have been officially confirmed yet, the source has a strong track record with iOS and hardware leaks.
New Head Gestures Could Control Conversation Awareness
Last year, Apple introduced simple head gestures on AirPods Pro, like nodding or shaking your head to accept or decline calls. Now, it looks like Apple wants to take that further. You may soon be able to end Conversation Awareness mode just by tilting your head a certain way, instead of touching the stem.
Sleep Auto-Pause Could Be a Game-Changer
Many users fall asleep listening to music or podcasts, but sleep timers aren’t always reliable. Apple may soon use built-in sensors—or possibly Apple Watch integration—to detect when you’ve dozed off, then pause playback automatically. It’s a small but meaningful quality-of-life feature that could quickly become a favorite.
Use AirPods to Control Camera Shutter on the iPhone
It looks like Apple is finally bringing back remote photo capture via earphones, just like the old wired EarPods could. AirPods may soon let you click the stem to trigger the iPhone or iPad camera. While it may be an odd gesture in a group shot, it’s a very welcome addition for creators and remote photo-takers.
AirPods Might Become a Creator’s Mic
Apple is reportedly testing a new mic mode for AirPods inspired by the Audio Zoom feature on iPhones. The goal is to isolate your voice from background noise and offer selectable audio modes, something that would be extremely useful for vloggers, streamers, and podcasters who rely on mobile setups.
Classroom Support for Shared iPads
A more subtle but important feature in the works is a better pairing experience for AirPods on shared iPads, especially in schools. The update aims to reduce pairing friction and make AirPods more practical in classroom environments with rotating users.
Final Thoughts
A recent report by Ming-Chi Kuo last month suggested that Apple is unlikely to release new AirPods until at least 2026. These new expected features for a pair of earbuds that are nearly 3 years old now, presents a good case for why Apple is no hurry for a refreshed release. If software updates can add new quality features to an existing hardware, no one is complaining.
Related: Apple to Open AI Models to Developers at WWDC 2025 for On-Device App Integration
Apple will officially kick off WWDC25 with its keynote on Monday, where we expect to hear all about iOS 26, macOS 26, and other major software upgrades. AI might take a backseat this year, giving room for real-world usability improvements, like these AirPods updates.
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