Apple has introduced a new feature that allows AirPods to function as a wireless microphone while recording videos through the iPhone’s Camera app and select third-party apps such as Blackmagic Cam. This feature lets users capture high-quality audio even from a distance, transmitting sound directly to the iPhone and replacing the built-in mic.
Although the option is not prominently visible in the Camera interface, it can be enabled through the Control Center or the Settings app. Here’s a complete guide on how to use it and which iPhone and AirPods models are compatible.
iOS 26 Compatibility: Supported iPhone Models
The AirPods microphone feature works only on iPhones running iOS 26 or later. Below is the list of eligible models:
- iPhone 17 series: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Air
- iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e
- iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
How to Use AirPods as a Microphone in the iPhone Camera App
Follow these steps to use your AirPods as a microphone while recording videos:
- Wear your AirPods and make sure they are connected to your iPhone.
- Open the Camera app or another supported camera app.
- Select Video mode.
- Swipe down from the top-right corner to open the Control Center.
- Tap Camera Controls, then do the following:
- Input: Select your AirPods.
- Mic Mode: Choose from Automatic, Standard, Voice Isolation, or Wide Spectrum.
Alternatively, you can set AirPods as your microphone in the Settings app. Go to Settings → Sounds and Haptics → Input → AirPods.
Using AirPods as a Camera Remote
Apple also allows users to take photos or start recording videos using AirPods. However, not all AirPods support this feature.
Supported AirPods models for Camera Remote:
- AirPods 4
- AirPods Pro 2
- AirPods Pro 3
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How to Set Up AirPods as a Camera Remote
- Wear your AirPods and make sure they are connected to your iPhone or iPad.
- Go to Settings on your device.
- Tap the name of your AirPods near the top of the screen.
- Tap Camera Remote, then choose either Press Once or Press and Hold.
If you select Press Once, media control gestures are temporarily unavailable while using the camera. If you select Press and Hold, listening modes and Siri gestures are temporarily unavailable while using a supported camera app.
How to Take Photos and Record Videos Using AirPods
Once the Camera Remote is set up, you can use your AirPods to capture photos or videos hands-free.
- To take a photo: Press the stem on your AirPods once.
- To record a video: Switch to Video mode and press the stem to start recording. Press again to stop.
Final Thoughts
With iOS 26, Apple continues to improve the iPhone and AirPods integration, making content creation more convenient. The ability to use AirPods as a wireless microphone and camera remote offers creators a hands-free, high-quality audio and video experience. For vloggers, filmmakers, and everyday users, this feature is a valuable addition to Apple’s ecosystem.