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iOS 26 Beta Lets AirPods Act as a Remote for the iPhone Camera

Access currently requires the iOS 26 preview plus an AirPods beta firmware opt-in.

Overview

  • The Camera Remote feature is live in testing and becomes available after enabling AirPods Beta Updates and receiving the beta firmware.
  • Compatibility is limited to AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, with at least one AirPod worn to trigger the controls.
  • Users turn it on in Settings under their AirPods entry by opening Camera Control, selecting Camera Remote, and choosing Press Once or Press and Hold.
  • Photo mode triggers a three‑second countdown followed by a 10‑image burst, while Video mode starts or stops recording with the chosen gesture within Bluetooth range.
  • Apple is expected to include the feature in the public iOS 26 release in mid‑September, alongside additions like sleep auto‑pause and improved call quality for AirPods.