Fix: Cannot Change AirPods Pro Mic Input in iOS 26 Camera

Using your AirPods Pro as a wireless microphone while recording video on your iPhone is a powerful feature, but many users running iOS 26 have discovered that the native Camera app provides no option to select them as the audio input.

This issue, where other external microphones appear as an option but AirPods do not, has been a source of confusion in places like this Apple Community discussion. The problem is typically not a fault with your devices, but a deliberate software limitation based on your region or a simple settings conflict.

Why the Camera App Can’t See Your AirPods Mic

The primary reason you cannot select your AirPods Pro as a microphone in the native iOS 26 Camera app is due to regional restrictions. Apple has confirmed that this feature is not enabled in certain areas, including Europe, at this time. The Camera app is programmed to hide the AirPods input option in these locations, even though the hardware is fully capable.

This explains why other external Bluetooth microphones (like a Rode Wireless Go) may appear as a selectable input; they use a standard audio profile that is not subject to the same restriction. It also explains why your AirPods mic works perfectly for phone calls, FaceTime, and Voice Memos—those applications are designed to use the AirPods’ communication profile and are not affected by the Camera app’s specific limitation.

How to Fix or Work Around the AirPods Mic Issue

While you may not be able to enable the feature in the native app due to regional locks, you can use effective workarounds and perform checks to ensure your devices are ready if the feature becomes available.

1. Use a Third‑Party Camera App

This is the most effective workaround. Professional camera apps available on the App Store are not subject to the same limitations as Apple’s native app and offer manual audio input selection.

1. Download a camera app that supports external microphones, such as Blackmagic Camera (free) or FiLMiC Pro.
2. Connect your AirPods Pro to your iPhone.
3. Open the third‑party camera app.
4. Navigate to the app’s audio settings menu.
5. Select your AirPods Pro from the list of available microphone inputs.

If you want to explore other new camera features, check out the guide on the new Camera Mode Wheel.

2. Update iOS and AirPods Firmware

Apple could enable this feature for more regions in a future software update. Keeping your devices up to date is the best way to ensure you receive these changes.

1. To update your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update.

   

2. To update your AirPods, place them in their charging case, connect the case to power, and keep your paired iPhone nearby and connected to Wi‑Fi. The firmware will update automatically.

If you experience Wi‑Fi connectivity problems while updating, you may need to fix Wi‑Fi issues first.

3. Try to Select the Mic via Control Center

In supported regions, Control Center provides a way to manage your microphone input. It is worth checking to see if this option is available to you.

1. Connect your AirPods and put them in your ears.
2. Open the Camera app and switch to Video mode.
3. Swipe down from the top‑right corner to open Control Center.
4. Tap the Mic Mode button. If this button is not visible, the feature is likely disabled.
5. If available, select your AirPods from the input list.

4. Verify the Mic Works in Other Apps

Confirm that the issue is isolated to the Camera app by testing your AirPods’ microphone in another application. This helps rule out a hardware problem.

1. With your AirPods connected, open the Voice Memos app.
2. Record a new memo. The app should indicate it is using the AirPods as the input.
3. If it records your voice clearly, your AirPods are working correctly.

5. Ensure AirPods Are Worn Correctly

The microphones on your AirPods may not activate until the built‑in sensors detect that they are in your ears. Make sure both AirPods are seated properly before you start recording.

6. Restart Your Devices

A simple restart can clear temporary software glitches that may be causing unexpected behavior.

1. Place your AirPods back in their case and close the lid for 30 seconds.
2. Restart your iPhone by turning it off and on again.
3. Reconnect your AirPods and re‑test the Camera app.

If you’re encountering other feature‑specific glitches after the iOS 26 update—such as Face ID problems—consider the steps to fix Face ID issues, which follow a similar troubleshooting pattern.

If none of these solutions work, contact Apple Support.