.png){kind=logo}
AirPods let you control your iPhone camera hands-free using Siri and Voice Control.
You can take photos and record or stop videos with simple voice commands.
Ideal for selfies, vlogs, group shots, and tripod recordings.
Apple has introduced several advancements to its series of gadgets over the years. Every upgrade has proven to be a purposeful modification that amplifies performance and versatility. One such enhancement is inter-device operability. Users can utilize their AirPods to trigger the iPhone camera. It is a resourceful technique that allows them to take snapshots without direct contact.
Let’s take a look at how users can capture photos and record videos on iPhones using AirPods to reduce camera shaking and improve stability and clarity.
Users need to install iOS 26 to perform this activity on both iPhones and iPads. Supported AirPods models are AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with ANC, AirPods Pro (2nd generation), and AirPods Pro 3. Ensure the latest firmware is integrated through automatic updates when charging the iPhone. Older AirPods, like the 3rd-gen and 1st-gen Pro, lack this feature.
After complete installation, one must follow these steps:
Tap on your settings.
Scroll down until you see your AirPods listed in the settings menu.
Find Camera Remote under the Camera Control section and tap it.
You can set it to Press Once or Press and Hold.
Open your camera app and tap the front-facing camera.
Press and hold on the stems of the AirPods.
The timer starts, and the photo is taken.
You can also take videos using Camera Remote. Switch the Camera app to Video mode. Press your AirPod stem to start recording immediately. To stop recording, you just press the stem again.
Also Read: AirPods That Read Your Mind? Apple's New Patent is a Game-Changer
The three-second countdown for photos is automatically enabled and cannot be deactivated. One can extend the countdown by tapping the grid icon in the top right of the Camera app, selecting Timer, and choosing the required time interval.
The camera remote feature works with all modes, including Portrait, Panorama, and Time-Lapse, making it a versatile tool for different types of photography.
AirPods Pro 2, Pro 3, or AirPods 4 can detect head movements and use them to control Siri and respond to notifications hands-free. Live Translation is one of the most impressive features added in Apple’s iOS 26. Open the Translate app on your iPhone, press and hold the stem on both AirPods simultaneously, or ask Siri to ‘start Live Translation’.
If you regularly fall asleep while listening to music, podcasts, or videos with your AirPods in, sleep detection solves a common problem. Available on AirPods Pro 2, Pro 3, and AirPods 4, this feature uses sensors to detect when you've fallen asleep and automatically pauses whatever you're listening to.
iOS 26 added a hidden setting that prevents this from happening. ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ locks audio to your AirPods even when other Bluetooth devices are in range, so music won't randomly connect to car speakers, HomePod, and other Bluetooth speakers.
Use a tripod or phone stand for stability.
Check the lighting before giving the command.
Speak clearly and naturally.
Keep the AirPods battery charged.
Turn off background noise for better voice recognition.
Also Read: iPhone 17e May Enter Mass Production After CES 2026, Launch Likely in Early 2026
AirPods are more than just wireless earphones. With Siri and Voice Control, they become a powerful remote tool for your iPhone camera. Whether you are a content creator, traveler, student, or casual user, learning to capture pictures and record videos using these devices adds comfort, creativity, and efficiency to your daily photography.
Users should consider checking their device compatibility and OS-based limitations before trying to initiate their desired process.
1. Can AirPods directly take photos like a camera remote?
No. AirPods do not have a built-in shutter button. However, you can use Siri or Voice Control through AirPods to command your iPhone to take photos or record videos.
2. Do all AirPods models support camera control?
Yes. All AirPods models (AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max) support Siri and Voice Control features, which allow indirect camera control on iPhones.
3. Do I need the internet for Siri to take photos?
Yes. Siri usually requires an internet connection. However, once enabled, Voice Control works offline.
4. Can I use AirPods to record long videos?
Yes. You can start and stop video recording using Siri or Voice Control, making AirPods useful for vlogging, workouts, and presentations.
5. Is this feature safe for professional content creation?
Yes. Many content creators use AirPods for hands-free control, but for professional results, using a tripod, good lighting, and external microphones is recommended.
