Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update brings a cool feature that might show AirPods Pro 3 could have cameras. The new tool, called Camera Remote, allows you to use AirPods to take photos or record videos on your iPhone. You just tap or hold the AirPods stem to control the camera, much like the Apple Watch’s camera app.
This feature stands out because it’s tucked into a new iOS 26 settings menu labeled “Camera Control,” with no other options yet. This makes it seem like Apple is planning something big, possibly for AirPods Pro 3. Rumors suggest these earbuds, expected in 2025 or 2026, might include cameras. Analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo say they could have infrared cameras, while Mark Gurman hints at AI-powered features to understand your surroundings.
With cameras, AirPods Pro 3 could let you capture your environment by tapping the stem, then use AI to give you info through your earbuds. If Apple adds full photo features, tapping once might take a picture, while holding could activate smart visual tools, similar to the iPhone’s Camera Control button. The Camera Remote tool in iOS 26 feels like a clue that Apple is getting ready for AirPods Pro 3 with cameras.