Photo: Apple
With the release of iOS 18, we're expecting some new features to hit AirPods—specifically, the new AirPods 4 (with and without Active Noise Cancellation) and the AirPods Pro 2. They will get new ways to interact with Siri, improve call quality, and boost your mobile gaming capabilities.
They are getting Siri Interactions. It allows you to just nod or shake your head to respond to Siri prompts or questions. For example, if you want to answer a call, reply to a message, or check your notifications, you can just do the gesture.
Call quality is also getting a boost through Voice Isolation. Whether you're out and about in loud areas or at home being drowned out by a fan, this new feature can help you be heard. It is automatically enabled on your device. Voice Isolation works with FaceTime and third-party apps that support CallKit (like WebEx, Zoom, WhatsApp, etc.).
Gaming is also going to be better on these AirPods. The new update improves the wireless audio latency on these earbuds for a better mobile gaming experience. Personalized Spatial Audio is also coming to all AirPods models to boost that gaming experience further.
Apple hasn't rolled out its new hearing health features yet. But that's expected to come soon.