Apple is finally bringing the highly anticipated camera control feature to AirPods with the iOS 26 beta. This feature, revealed in the developer beta, will allow AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro2 owners to remotely control their iPhone or iPad’s camera by tapping the AirPods stem. This function can be activated with a “press and hold” or “press and release” gesture for both photo and video recording.

AirPods will introduce a camera control function

According to Apple’s official announcement, users will be able to take photos and start and stop video recording by pressing and holding the AirPods stem. When the Camera app is open, these commands will be executed instantly and will replace the press and release control.

This feature is particularly useful for users shooting alone. Taking selfies or videos from a distance with the device secured on a tripod can be transformed into an enjoyable experience by simply tapping the AirPods stem. Furthermore, the fact that it will work with third-party apps as well as Apple’s Camera app offers a wide range of applications for developers.

In addition to camera control, the iOS 26 beta also brings new features to AirPods, including studio-quality audio recording, sleep detection and auto-pause, and new head gesture controls. AirPods equipped with the H2 chip offer a richer multimedia experience with these updates.

The new features are being tested in the developer beta, with a public beta expected soon. The final version is expected to be available free to all iPhone and iPad users in the fall (presumably with the final iOS 26 release).

With this move, Apple aims to make AirPods not only wireless headphones but also a remote camera control device for creative content creators. Controlling camera functions with a single tap stands out as a thoughtful feature that will change user habits.