WWDC 2020: AirPods to get auto-switching and spatial audio features

Alongside the software updates for iPhones, iPads and more, Apple also updated the AirPods and AirPods Pro with two new features.

Automatic switching

Once you get the download for the new firmware update, your AirPods, AirPods Pro, Powerbeats, Powerbeats Pro and Beats Solo Pro will be able to enjoy the new automatic switching feature. This means that your Apple earphones can effortlessly switch between your Apple devices, depending on which device you’re currently using. Let’s paint a picture; you’re wearing the AirPods and watching a YouTube video. Then, when you switch to your iPad to attend a Zoom meeting, your AirPods automatically switches the audio input from your iPhone to your iPad. Suddenly, your iPhone starts ringing; you pick up the call and your AirPods automatically switches back to the iPhone. You won’t have to move a finger to switch between devices.

AirPods Pro: Spatial audio

Apple is adding another feature to its flagship wireless earbuds. The AirPods Pro will be equipped with spatial audio – surround-style audio that can be experienced in movie theaters. The new feature will take into account the position of the device and users’ head movement to constantly provide spatial audio accurately.

Additionally, Apple announced a new “Spatial Audio” feature, which will only be coming to its AirPods Pro earbuds. The new feature will offer 3D, surround sound-style audio on your AirPods Pro to replicate a “movie theater experience” and will constantly recalibrate based on the position of your head to whatever device you’re using.