With iOS 27, the AirPods receive several new features – including a long-awaited dedicated equalizer and integration with the smarter Siri AI. However, the latter will not be available to users in Germany at launch.
Apple traditionally expands the functionality of AirPods via software updates, and iOS 27 is particularly comprehensive in this regard. Besides a redesigned settings menu and deeper AI integration, one feature takes center stage that users have long requested: customizable sound. These new features are part of the ongoing iOS 27 beta phase and require that the AirPods firmware is also up to date. Some features are tied to specific models or regions.
Finally, a dedicated equalizer!
For years, Apple refused to provide a freely adjustable equalizer for AirPods, limiting users to preset sound profiles. With iOS 27, this changes: For the first time, the sound can be adjusted via a dedicated equalizer. This setting can be accessed via "Settings" and the respective AirPods name under "Audio & Routing" in the "Equalizer" section. Bass, midrange, and treble can be adjusted there separately.
An H2 chip is required, meaning the feature is reserved for the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2. These four H2 models differ significantly from one another – from open-back in-ear to closed-back Pro models to over-ear. An overview of all currently available AirPods models can be found on Amazon.
Clean settings menu
Once the AirPods are connected to an iPhone, iOS 27 displays a more compact and better-structured settings interface. It's still located under "Settings" in the AirPods entry, but is now organized more clearly. The Transparency, Noise Cancellation, and Adaptive Switch modes remain at the top for quick switching, complemented by a new volume control in the same view.
Instead of extensive submenus, the options are now sorted into clearly separated categories. These include Audio & Routing, Hearing Health, Operation & Gestures, Live Translation, Accessibility, Battery, Find My, and Privacy.
Siri AI in your ear – with a catch in the EU
When connected to an iPhone, the smarter Siri AI assistant also works on AirPods. Users wearing AirPods can ask Siri AI questions and formulate requests without having to reach for their iPhone. This isn't a standalone feature of the AirPods themselves – it always requires an iPhone that supports Siri AI.
This is precisely where the problem lies for Germany: Since Siri AI is not available on iPhones and iPads in the EU at launch, the enhanced voice control via AirPods cannot initially be used here. Apple cites the regulations of the Digital Markets Act as the reason. Traditional voice commands remain unaffected.
Finding things more precisely – now also via Apple Watch
The AirPods Pro 3 charging case features Ultra Wideband (UWB), enabling precise location of misplaced AirPods directly on the iPhone. With iOS 27 and watchOS 27, this functionality is enhanced: precise AirPods Pro 3 location can also be found using an Apple Watch, making the search independent of the iPhone.
Heart rate monitor for fitness equipment
With GymKit, AirPods Pro 3 in iOS 27 work more closely with fitness equipment. The heart rate measured in the earbuds can be transmitted to compatible devices such as treadmills or indoor bikes, so that workout data appears directly on the device's display. This feature is exclusive to AirPods Pro 3 with their integrated heart rate sensor.
Increased accessibility through name recognition
A new accessibility feature is designed for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Name recognition alerts the user as soon as their name is mentioned nearby. The feature is integrated into the hearing health options of AirPods and supports more than 50 languages worldwide.
Which AirPods have which function
Not every new feature is available on all models. The custom equalizer and other improvements require an H2 chip, while Siri AI needs an iPhone compatible with Apple Intelligence. Precise ear detection and GymKit streaming remain exclusive to the AirPods Pro 3, as only this model has the necessary hardware.
iOS 27: Here's what's next
AirPods benefit from both practical improvements and closer AI integration in iOS 27 – although the latter will initially be unavailable to users in the EU. Developers can already test the features, the public beta will follow in the summer, and the final release is planned for autumn 2026. As with all beta features, changes are possible until then. (Image: Shutterstock / photoschmidt)
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