One of the coolest things about AirPods, and a key reason to get them over what may seem like “better” in-ear buds, is the way Apple keeps updating their software to provide more features, especially when combined with the latest iOS or macOS releases.
This year is no exception–when Apple releases iOS 18 and macOS 15 this fall, it will be accompanied by firmware updates for AirPods that give them some cool new tricks. Here’s how your AirPods will improve this year.
Nod ‘yes’ or shake ‘no’ to answer or decline calls
When it’s crowded or noisy, you may not be able to answer a Siri request using your voice. And your hands may be full. With AirPods Pro (2nd gen), you can simply gently nod your head “yes” or shake it “no” to answer a Siri request.
Voice Isolation
Already a feature on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, Voice Isolation is coming to AirPods Pro. This feature removes a lot of background noise from what your AirPods Pro mics pick up, so the person you’re talking to can clearly hear you even when surrounded by lots of noise.
Better gaming features
Games will be able to use Personalized Spatial Audio with AirPods (3rd gen), AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max. The new Game Mode for iOS and iPadOS will reduce latency to 2nd-gen AirPods Pro in addition to game controllers.
Author: Jason Cross, Senior Editor, Macworld
Jason has written about technology for more than 25 years - first in the gaming press, then focusing on enthusiast PCs and general technology. He enjoys learning how complicated technology works and explaining it in a way anyone can understand.