Apple improves AirPods charging experience in iOS 26 with clearer status lights and proactive low-battery notifications, even when not in use.
Latest iOS 26 Beta 5 Improves the AirPods Charging Experience, Here’s How
Apple is refining the AirPods experience in iOS 26, and the latest beta hints at subtle but smart upgrades to how charging status is communicated, both visually and through notifications.
Suggested: iOS 26 Beta 5: All the New Features and Changes for iPhone Users
Clearer Charging Case Indicators
Code discovered in iOS 26 Beta 5 (Via: MacRumors) mentions that the AirPods charging case now more clearly indicates charging status. A new splash screen image highlights a few key tweaks:
- Two amber light shades: One for when the case is charging, and another when AirPods are charging inside.
- Green light: Shown when the case or AirPods are fully charged.
- These visual cues help users better understand whether it’s the case or AirPods that need power.
Currently, the lights are only visible when the case is open. But with iOS 26, there’s speculation that the amber warning may appear even when the case is closed, making it easier to know when to recharge.
Smart Low Battery Reminders
In earlier betas, Apple also introduced a new iPhone notification system that alerts users when their AirPods are low on battery, even if they’re not currently in use. This proactive approach ensures your AirPods are always ready when you need them.
Why It Matters
While these changes might seem small, they show Apple’s ongoing focus on usability and convenience, especially for accessories like AirPods Pro and AirPods 4 that are used daily.
We’ll likely see these features roll out fully with the public release of iOS 26 this fall, alongside the expected iPhone 17 lineup on September 9, 2025.
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