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Apple is apparently planning several new features for the AirPods, which will be unveiled at WWDC25. These include sleep detection, camera control, and new head gestures. The new features are aimed at both everyday users and professional users. Many of the new features could already be available with iOS 26.
The AirPods have long since evolved from classic Bluetooth headphones into smart wearables. With each software update, Apple expands their capabilities. The focus is not only on better sound, but increasingly on smart interaction, automated usage, and everyday usability. WWDC25 is likely to further advance this development, as 9to5mac has now learned.
New head gestures for better control
Apple already introduced head gestures with the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, allowing you to answer or decline calls and control notifications. Now, Apple is working on additional head gestures that will allow you to adjust the volume while Conversation Awareness is active. Afterward, the AirPods will automatically return to your previous noise control setting. Previously, you had to hold the stem or swipe up to do this. The new gestures are designed to simplify this process.
AirPods detect when you've fallen asleep
Many users fall asleep with their AirPods on, whether while listening to music or podcasts. Currently, this often requires a timer, which not every app offers. According to sources, Apple is working on a way for the AirPods to detect when you've fallen asleep and then automatically pause playback. Whether this will work with the AirPods alone or whether a connection to the Apple Watch is necessary is still unclear. However, the feature would be a useful addition.
Trigger camera with AirPods
Another feature Apple is apparently planning: By tapping the stem of the AirPods, you'll be able to trigger the camera on your iPhone or iPad. This would allow you to conveniently take selfies or group photos without holding the device. Even though tapping your ear might seem a bit unusual, it could be a practical addition. It's unclear whether the feature will also work if you're only holding one AirPod.
Audio Mix brings studio quality to recordings
Apple apparently wants to bring the Audio Mix, already introduced with the iPhone 16, to the AirPods. This uses machine learning to separate speech from the background. Three options are available: In-Frame, Studio, and Cinematic. The new mode for the AirPods is said to offer studio-quality microphone quality. This could also make them attractive to developers and content creators who have previously relied on lavalier microphones.
Connecting AirPods more easily at school
In schools, multiple students often share an iPad. Apple is therefore working on a feature that will simplify pairing AirPods with shared iPads. The goal is a smoother connection with fewer manual steps. This improvement could be especially helpful in educational institutions where devices are used by different people on a daily basis.
WWDC25 focused on user-friendliness
Apple is expected to unveil numerous updates to its platforms at WWDC25 on June 9: iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and more. This year's focus is expected to be less on artificial intelligence and more on design and long-awaited features. The new AirPods features fit well with this strategy. Even if just a few of them are unveiled, it could be a big step toward a smarter everyday life with AirPods. (Image: Shutterstock / TatianaKim)
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