Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update is packed with headline-grabbing features such as the new Liquid Glass design, a simplified Camera app, and enhanced Messages and Phone capabilities. However, as is often the case with major iOS releases, some of the most practical improvements are not revealed on stage at Apple’s WWDC keynote. Instead, they surface later when developers and early adopters explore the betas.
One of the most useful of these hidden features is a setting called “Keep Audio with Headphones.” It solves a common frustration experienced by anyone who regularly streams music or podcasts with AirPods or other wireless headphones.
The Problem iOS 26 Is Fixing
For years, iPhone users have faced an inconvenience with Bluetooth auto-switching. Imagine this scenario:
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You are listening to music on your AirPods.
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A Bluetooth device nearby perhaps a speaker, your car stereo, or even a smart TV powers on.
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Without warning, your iPhone automatically redirects audio to the new device, interrupting your listening session.
To regain control, you have to open the Bluetooth menu in Settings and manually reselect your AirPods. For many, this repetitive step has been an unnecessary disruption to what should be a seamless audio experience.
Summary Table
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
Name |
Keep Audio with Headphones |
Purpose |
Prevents audio from automatically switching away from headphones to other Bluetooth devices |
Location |
Settings → General → AirPlay & Continuity |
Default |
Disabled |
Supported Devices |
AirPods and other wireless headphones |
Availability |
iOS 26 (currently in public beta, full release expected September) |
Official Info |
What Is “Keep Audio with Headphones”?
iOS 26 introduces a toggle called “Keep Audio with Headphones.” According to Apple’s description:
“When using AirPods or other wireless headphones, keep audio with headphones when other devices like speakers or cars connect to iPhone.”
In short, once enabled, this feature tells your iPhone to prioritize your headphones. If another Bluetooth device connects, your audio will remain uninterrupted, staying on your AirPods or other wireless earbuds until you intentionally switch it.
Where to Find the New Setting
The setting is easy to access, but it is disabled by default. To turn it on:
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Open the Settings app.
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Navigate to General.
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Select AirPlay & Continuity.
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Toggle Keep Audio with Headphones to ON.
From that moment, your iPhone will respect your choice to keep audio on your headphones—whether you enter your car, power on a speaker, or move between environments.
Why This Matters
The feature may seem small, but for many users, it represents a major quality-of-life improvement. Apple’s ecosystem thrives on automation, yet not every automation fits everyone’s daily routine.
With this setting:
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Commuters can keep music playing through AirPods while getting into their car, instead of having playback forced through the car stereo.
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Home users can power on Bluetooth speakers without disrupting their podcast stream.
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Fitness enthusiasts can walk past previously paired devices without losing the beat in their wireless headphones.
It empowers users to control their listening environment rather than letting the iPhone decide for them.
User and Developer Feedback
The feature first appeared in developer betas of iOS 26 and is now available in public beta. Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Users on Apple forums and Reddit have described the change as “long overdue,” with some noting that this small toggle has already eliminated one of their biggest annoyances with Bluetooth audio.
One beta tester commented:
“Finally, I can walk into my house without my music instantly jumping to my living room speaker. This alone makes iOS 26 worth upgrading to.”
Availability
iOS 26 is expected to launch in September, alongside the next iPhone lineup. Until then, the Keep Audio with Headphones feature can be tested through the public beta program.
You can enroll in the beta via Apple’s official site:
Apple Beta Software Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does this feature only work with AirPods?
A. No. Apple states that it works with AirPods and other wireless headphones, meaning third-party Bluetooth headphones will also benefit.
Q2. Will CarPlay override this setting?
A. No. If enabled, audio remains with your headphones even if your car attempts to connect. You’ll still have the option to manually switch to CarPlay or car speakers when desired.
Q3. Is this feature automatically enabled after updating to iOS 26?
A. No. By default, the toggle is set to OFF. You need to enable it manually in Settings.
Q4. Does this replace Apple’s auto-switching feature introduced in earlier iOS versions?
A. No. Auto-switching still exists. The new toggle simply gives you more control, ensuring your headphones take priority when you want them to.
Q5. When will the stable version of iOS 26 be released?
A. The official release is expected in early to mid-September 2025, aligning with Apple’s usual iPhone event schedule.
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