Capture Photos & Videos Using AirPods Stems in Apple iOS 26 Beta
With iOS 26, AirPods users can now trigger iPhone photos and videos using simple stem gestures, making group shots and video recording easier.
image for illustrative purpose
Apple’s latest iOS 26 beta introduces a surprising new feature that allows AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 users to control iPhone photo and video capture directly through earbud gestures. Named Camera Remote, the functionality transforms AirPods into hands-free photography tools.
The feature mimics capabilities available in the Camera Remote app for Apple Watch, offering a convenient solution for group photos and video recording. Users can position their iPhone at a desired angle, step into the frame, and capture shots without touching the device. For videos, the feature provides steadier footage by eliminating the need to handle the phone during recording.
To use Camera Remote, devices must be running iOS 26 beta or iPadOS 26 beta. Users must also enable beta firmware updates on their AirPods:
1. Connect AirPods to an iPhone or iPad.
2. Open Settings ➝ -[Your Name] ➝ AirPods.
3. Scroll down and select AirPods Beta Updates.
4. Toggle the switch to enable updates.
Firmware updates install automatically when AirPods are placed in their charging case near the iPhone, which may take a few seconds to several minutes.
After updating, Camera Remote can be configured in Settings ➝ AirPods ➝ Camera Control ➝ Camera Remote. Users can select between two gestures: Press Once or Press and Hold. The first responds to a single tap on the AirPods stem, while the latter activates the camera after holding the stem.
With the feature enabled, users can launch the native Camera app and select Photo or Video mode. For photos, gestures trigger a 3-second countdown followed by a burst of 10 images, increasing the chances of capturing the perfect shot. For videos, the same gesture starts and stops recording, functioning as a wireless record button. The feature works within the Bluetooth range of AirPods, supporting wide-angle shots and creative compositions.
iOS 26 also introduces enhancements such as auto-pause audio during sleep and improved call quality. Apple plans a general release of iOS 26 around mid-September.
