AirPods in iOS 27: Custom EQ, Heart Rate Syncing, and Every New Feature Worth Knowing (2026)

Apple's iOS 27 brings the most significant AirPods software update in years. A three-band custom EQ, a completely redesigned settings interface, GymKit heart rate syncing for the Pro 3, and Precision Finding on Apple Watchare the headline features — and they ship as free updates this September. Here's everything you need to know.

What Is AirPods Custom EQ and How Does It Work?

For the first time, AirPods owners can adjust their sound signature with a built-in equalizer. Apple's implementation is a three-band EQ— lows, mids, and highs — accessible via Settings > [AirPods Name] > Audio & Routing > Equalizer > Custom.

The standout feature is the interactive real-time preview. As you drag sliders, the audio output updates immediately so you can hear how each adjustment sounds before committing. This is a polish touch that competitors like Sony (in the Headphones Connect app) and Samsung (via Galaxy Wearable) don't match — those require you to apply changes, listen, and readjust.

Supported models: AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2 — any model with an H2 chip or newer. Older AirPods (AirPods 2, AirPods 3, original Max) are excluded.

The context: Sony's WF-1000XM6 has offered a 10-band EQ since launch, and Samsung's Galaxy Buds 3 Prooffers 6-band customization. Apple's three-band EQ is simpler — but for most users, three bands is enough. Bass-heavy? Boost lows. Vocals sound muffled? Raise mids. It's approachable by design.

What Changed in the AirPods Settings Interface?

The AirPods settings page in iOS 27 has been completely reorganized. Instead of the previous flat list of toggles and options, everything is now grouped into clear categories:

• Audio & Routing: EQ, Spatial Audio, Personalized Volume, Conversation Boost
• Hearing Health: Loud Environment Notifications, hearing test results
• Controls & Gestures: Stem press/squeeze actions, head gesture settings
• Live Translation: Language settings for real-time translation
• Accessibility: Audio accessibility features
• Battery: Charging status and optimization settings
• Find My: Precision Finding settings
• Privacy: Data sharing and on-device processing controls

The top of the screen retains quick toggles for Transparency, Noise Cancellation, and Adaptive modes, plus a new integrated volume slider — so you can adjust volume without reaching for the Control Center.

How Does GymKit Heart Rate Syncing Work?

This is an AirPods Pro 3 exclusive. The Pro 3's built-in heart rate sensor can now sync biometric data to GymKit-compatible gym equipment — treadmills, indoor bikes, ellipticals, and stair climbers — through the iPhone Fitness app.

Previously, GymKit heart rate syncing required an Apple Watch. With iOS 27, users who don't own a Watch but do own AirPods Pro 3 can still get accurate heart rate tracking on compatible gym machines. The data flows: AirPods Pro 3 → iPhone → GymKit equipment, updating the machine's display in real time.

This positions the AirPods Pro 3 as a dual-purpose fitness and audio device — a combination no competitor currently offers. The Sony WF-1000XM6 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro have no biometric sensors.

What Other AirPods Features Are Coming in iOS 27?

Beyond the headline features, iOS 27 and watchOS 27 bring several additional AirPods improvements:

• Precision Finding on Apple Watch: AirPods Pro 3 now support Precision Finding from watchOS 27 — locate your earbuds with directional arrows on your Watch screen, no iPhone required
• Studio Quality Audio Recording: AirPods microphones get improved vocal texture and clarity for the Camera app, Voice Memos, and Messages dictation
• AirPods Camera Remote: Press and hold the AirPods stem to capture photos or videos at a distance from your iPhone camera
• AirPods Max 2 Beta Support: AirPods Max 2 beta firmware arrived in iOS 27 Beta 2 (June 23) — Beta 1 didn't support the Max 2

Should You Buy AirPods Pro 3 Now or Wait?

Buy now.The hardware isn't changing — every iOS 27 feature is a free software update that works on any AirPods Pro 3 you purchase today. The current street price of ~$199 is already $50 below MSRP, and the Prime Day low of $169 likely won't return until Black Friday.

If you own AirPods Pro 2:Custom EQ, the redesigned settings, and Studio Quality Recording all work on your existing earbuds. The main iOS 27 features you'd miss are GymKit heart rate (Pro 3 only) and Precision Finding on Watch (Pro 3 only). Unless you specifically want gym heart rate syncing, upgrading isn't necessary.

If you're on Android: These features are Apple-only. The Sony WF-1000XM6 ($279) offers 10-band EQ today, and the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro ($140) offer 6-band EQ with better Samsung integration. Compare all options in our wireless earbuds guide.