The topic Google quietly fixed AirPods compatibility with Android, and this app is all you need is currently the subject of lively discussion — readers and analysts are keeping a close eye on developments.
This is taking place in a dynamic environment: companies’ decisions and competitors’ reactions can quickly change the picture.
It’s long been a poorly kept secret that AirPods technically work with Android phones. However, certain features have always been broken due to Apple’s disregard for Bluetooth standards. That’s finally been fixed, and an app called LibrePods unlocks the possibilities.
Since AirPods were first announced in 2016, they’ve been somewhat compatible with Android phones. At the core, they work as standard Bluetooth headphones, allowing them to be connected to just about any Bluetooth audio device. That doesn’t mean all the features are available, though.
Previously, if you connected AirPods to an Android phone, you could switch between active noise cancellation modes and use the touch gestures to play/pause, skip forward/backward, etc. Since Apple doesn’t follow Bluetooth standards, you need root for things like precise battery status, immediate ear-detection, conversational awareness, changing settings from your phone, and more.
LibrePods is an app that’s been around for a couple of years, and it gives people access to those extra features if they have a rooted phone. Now, recent Android updates have resolved the issue, and root is no longer needed.
according to the data the folks at LibrePods, Google recently fixed the Bluetooth compatibility issue with AirPods in Android 16 QPR3. This update rolled out to Pixel phones in March, and it will be included in the stable release of Android 17 for all phones. The issue was also fixed by OnePlus, Oppo, and Realme in their latest Android 16 updates.
As a result, LibrePods is now available in the Play Store, and it doesn’t require root. Some features require an in-app purchase, but the big ones are available for free: precise battery status, ear detection, changing listening modes, and press-and-hold listening mode customization. However, all features are available for free if you download from GitHub.
Lastly, the expanded functionality is available for the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen), AirPods Pro (3rd Gen), and AirPods Max. All other AirPods models are still limited to the basic features.
Google is clearly trying to pull more users away from Apple’s ecosystem. In recent months, we’ve seen them bring AirDrop to certain Android phones, and of course, the big push for RCS support last year. Being able to seamlessly use AirPods with Android is another thing that could make switching less painful.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen feature enhanced noise cancellation, personalized spatial audio, and wireless charging capabilities.
The newest generation of the AirPods Pro has an enhanced ANC, more comfortable foam tips, and a new heart rate sensor on top of features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Apple Intelligence-powered offline Live Translation features.