Apple has announced one of its most important AirPods updates yet — and it’s set to help content creators like you do more with less. While the tech giant didn’t launch any new devices during its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 10, the company did reveal an upgrade that could transform how you use your iPhone to record audio.
Studio-quality audio from your AirPods
If you’ve tried filming a video, recording a podcast, or capturing interviews on your iPhone, you’ve probably run into audio issues. Whether background noise, distance from the camera, or simply not having the right gear, getting good sound has meant turning to third-party mics like the DJI Mic 2 or other wireless clip-on microphones. These tools are popular among mobile content creators because the built-in microphone on the iPhone usually struggles in real-world settings.
But Apple is finally addressing that problem. A new software update later this year will allow you to record what Apple calls studio-quality audio directly through your AirPods. This feature will be available on the upcoming AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, and the current AirPods Pro 2. If you want to try it early, you can download a public beta next month through the Apple Beta Software Program.
This audio boost is made possible by several things working together: the H2 chip, the beamforming microphones built into the AirPods, and Apple’s audio processing technology. The system also includes Voice Isolation, which helps your voice stand out — even in noisy places. That means you could film a TikTok in the street or record an interview in a café and still get clear sound without needing to clip on an extra mic.
Works across your favourite apps
This new recording feature will be available in several ways. It will work with the built-in iPhone Camera app and Voice Memos, popular video call services like FaceTime and Webex, and many third-party camera apps. This makes it a very flexible tool for all types of creators, whether you’re vlogging, podcasting, or taking part in virtual meetings.
Even better, Apple is adding a handy control to the AirPods. You can start or stop recording just by pressing and holding the stem. This simple gesture could make a big difference, especially if you’re filming solo and don’t want to keep walking back to your phone to hit record.
A step forward for mobile creators
Although this feature might not fully replace high-end recording gear, it’s a step in the right direction. Apple seems to understand that creators want better tools built into their daily devices. By bringing professional-style recording options into the AirPods, Apple could help you skip the need for extra equipment — saving both money and space in your kit bag.
We’ll still have to see how the audio quality holds up in real-world tests, but this update shows Apple is listening to content creators and trying to support their needs directly within the iPhone ecosystem. If you’ve been waiting for an easier way to capture clean audio on the go, this might be it.
