Apple plans to introduce camera controls and sleep detection capabilities to its AirPods lineup through software updates expected to accompany iOS 26, according to reports published today. The features would allow users to trigger their iPhone camera by pressing the AirPods stem and automatically pause audio when they fall asleep.
The updates represent Apple's latest effort to expand AirPods functionality without releasing new hardware, ahead of the company's Worldwide Developers Conference keynote scheduled for Monday.
The camera control feature would restore functionality that existed on Apple's original wired EarBuds, allowing users to snap photos remotely, reports 9to5Mac12. The sleep detection capability would pause audio when users doze off, presumably using data from paired Apple Watches since AirPods lack built-in sleep monitoring1.
Additional features under development include new head gestures for adjusting Conversation Awareness volume, a "studio quality" microphone mode similar to the iPhone's Audio Mix feature, and improved pairing for shared iPads in classroom settings13.
Apple introduced head gestures to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 last year, enabling users to nod or shake their heads to answer calls1. The company has not confirmed which AirPods models would support the new features.
The software updates come as Apple faces declining market share in wireless headphones. The company's dominance has slipped from over 48% in 2019 to around 21% in 2023, according to Statista data1.
Apple has simultaneously pursued health-focused features for AirPods. The AirPods Pro 2 received FDA approval for hearing aid functionality in September, offering clinical-grade hearing tests and over-the-counter hearing assistance23. The Apple Watch gained sleep apnea detection capabilities, monitoring breathing disturbances during sleep43.
Users have increasingly adopted AirPods for sleep, despite battery limitations and comfort concerns. Reddit discussions reveal mixed experiences, with some users praising noise cancellation benefits while others report discomfort from prolonged wear5.
Beyond software updates, Apple reportedly plans AirPods with infrared cameras by 2026. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the cameras could enable gesture controls and enhance spatial audio when paired with Apple Vision Pro123.
"Apple may choose to delay or tweak" the iOS 26 AirPods features before announcement, 9to5Mac cautioned4. The company has not responded to requests for comment ahead of Monday's keynote.
