Overview

• The option, called “Keep Audio with Headphones,” keeps playback in AirPods even after an iPhone connects to a car’s Bluetooth or CarPlay.
• Users can still switch output manually through Control Center or within the CarPlay interface while retaining other CarPlay functions.
• The feature also works with third‑party wireless headphones and helps prevent unwanted switches to Bluetooth speakers at home.
• You enable it by going to Settings > General > AirPlay & Continuity and turning on Keep Audio with Headphones.
• The addition is available in iOS 26 and was highlighted today after MacRumors spotted it and The Verge amplified the finding.