AirPods to Get Five New Features in iOS 26, Three Exclusive to H2 Chip

iOS 26 will introduce five new AirPods features, including automatic pausing when you fall asleep, studio-quality audio recording, camera remote, automatic switching for CarPlay, and enhanced voice quality on calls. However, three of these features - studio-quality audio recording, camera remote, and enhanced voice quality - will only be available on AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, which have an H2 chip. Other AirPods models will not receive these features.

Apple has released the iOS 26 Beta 3 update, bringing several new features to AirPods and Apple CarPlay. This update marks significant improvements in user experience and functionality, particularly for those using Apple's latest devices.

New AirPods Features in iOS 26 Beta 3

iOS 26 introduces five new features for AirPods, enhancing their capabilities and usability. The updates include:

1. Automatic Pausing When You Fall Asleep: This feature automatically pauses audio playback when the user falls asleep, ensuring a more comfortable listening experience.

2. Studio-Quality Audio Recording: Available on AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with an H2 chip, this feature allows users to record high-quality audio directly from their AirPods.

3. Camera Remote: This feature enables users to control their camera remotely using their AirPods, providing a hands-free experience for photography and videography.

4. Automatic Switching for CarPlay: This feature simplifies the process of switching between audio sources in CarPlay, making it easier to manage music and calls while driving.

5. Enhanced Voice Quality on Calls: This update improves the clarity of voice calls, making conversations clearer and more enjoyable.

AirPods with H2 Chip

It is important to note that three of these features—studio-quality audio recording, camera remote, and enhanced voice quality—are exclusive to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, which are equipped with an H2 chip. Other AirPods models, such as the AirPods Max, AirPods 3, and first-gen AirPods Pro, will not receive these advanced features [2].

Apple CarPlay Enhancements

The iOS 26 Beta 3 update also brings several enhancements to Apple CarPlay. Key improvements include:

1. UI Enhancements: The update introduces a liquid glass design with smoother transitions and modern design elements, improving the overall user interface.

2. Widgets and Display: CarPlay now supports a broader range of third-party widgets, allowing users to personalize their dashboard with greater flexibility.

3. Navigation and Gesture Controls: The update includes expanded support for pinch-to-zoom functionality and enhanced Apple Maps features, providing more intuitive and practical navigation options.

4. CarPlay Screenshot Settings: A new feature allows users to take screenshots of their CarPlay display, with improved image quality.

Conclusion

The iOS 26 Beta 3 update represents a significant step forward in enhancing the functionality and user experience of AirPods and Apple CarPlay. While some features are exclusive to specific AirPods models, the overall improvements are likely to benefit a wide range of users. As the update continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these new features impact the market and user satisfaction.

References

[1] https://www.timesnownews.com/technology-science/apple-ios-26-beta-3-available-for-download-eligibility-new-features-how-to-install-article-152244417
[2] https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/08/airpods-get-five-new-features-in-ios-26-but-three-require-an-h2-chip/
[3] https://www.nj.com/shopping-deals/2025/07/amazon-has-slashed-the-apple-airpods-pro-2-to-their-cheapest-price-ever-just-for-prime-day.html
[4] https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/apple-carplay-in-ios-26-beta-3/