June 10, 2026, 3:37 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Apple plans to introduce a feature with iOS 27 for its AirPods that many users have been missing. The wireless headphones accompany many people daily for music, podcasts, movies, video calls, or sports. Until now, the options for individual sound customization have been limited. Those who wanted to adjust specific frequency ranges had to resort to workarounds. This could change with the next version of the iPhone operating system.
Custom Equalizer for AirPods Announced
During the WWDC 2026 keynote, Apple announced that AirPods will have a custom equalizer directly available in the settings for the first time. Users will be able to adjust the most important frequency bands themselves. Planned are controls for bass, midrange, and treble.
Until now, sound adjustment was only possible to a limited extent. Users had to either use the equalizer in Apple Music or headphone adjustments in accessibility settings. The new solution will consolidate the settings directly with the AirPods, making the function no longer restricted to individual apps or special accessibility features.
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More Control Over Sound
The planned feature is intended to cover various use cases. Users could, for example, set stronger bass for workouts, highlight voices in podcasts, or reduce high tones if they are perceived as unpleasant.
Apple apparently remains committed to its approach of simple operation. The equalizer is not intended to appear as a comprehensive tool with numerous frequency bands. Instead, the company opts for a simplified solution with three controls, allowing users to adjust the main sound areas without dealing with individual frequencies.
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The move is still noteworthy. Until now, Apple aimed for a uniform sound experience with the AirPods. With iOS 27, users will have more options to tailor the sound to personal preferences. Similar features have been offered by other manufacturers for some time.
Older Models Left Out
It remains unclear which AirPods models will actually receive the new feature. According to the online magazine “Engadget,” the equalizer will only be available on devices with the H2 chip. This chip is found in AirPods Max 2, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4.
Older AirPods models would thus be left out. A final confirmation is still pending. Clarity is expected with the iOS update, which will first appear as a beta and then as a final version in the fall.
It will then become clear which models actually support the feature. It also remains to be seen whether further restrictions apply and whether Apple will integrate the equalizer into the settings as currently shown or make changes before the official launch.