We learned this week that both of Apple’s wireless earbuds, the AirPods and AirPods Pro, will be getting some serious software updates come this fall. As part of iOS 14, Apple will roll out an automatic switching feature for both AirPods or AirPods Pro that will allow them to automatically detect which device you’re listening to — be it iPhone, iPad or Mac — and then switch to that it. No dealing with Bluetooth Settings required. The other (and more interesting) feature will only affect AirPods Pro. It’s called “Spatial Audio” and it’ll allow your AirPods Pro to play more immersive surround sound; it’ll even support Dolby Atmos.
iOS 14 will also improve the lifespan of the AirPods and AirPods Pro. Both wireless earbuds will gain an “optimized charging” feature. Essentially, the AirPods and AirPods Pro will learn your usage habits and only charge fully to 100 percent when you’re about to use them. By only charging to 80% otherwise, this feature should help keep the batteries from aging as quickly and, hopefully, give them a longer lifespan.
iPhones, iPads and Macs have already had this optimized charging feature, but iOS 14 will mark the first time that Apple’s wireless earbuds will have it.
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