The iOS 26 Developer Beta 5 introduces a new charging indicator for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 cases, enhancing how users understand their AirPods’ battery status. The update adds two distinct shades of amber light along with a green charge indicator, improving clarity on charging states. Specifically:
- Green light indicates the AirPods case is fully charged.
- Yellow light shows the case is currently charging.
- Orange light signals that the AirPods case itself needs charging, even when it is not in use or opened. This new orange indicator will likely appear even if the case is closed and disconnected from a charger, alerting users that their case battery is running low.
This feature was first spotted through a splash screen shared by a designer known as Minimal Nerd, showing what each LED color means in iOS 26. The app’s popup description states the charging case “now more clearly indicates charging status,” and users will also receive reminders when it’s time to charge their AirPods.
This is new in Beta 5 right ?! I’ve never seen it before. pic.twitter.com/GC8BP7nTmP
— Minimal Nerd (@minimalnerd1) August 6, 2025
Further, iOS 26 has introduced an iPhone notification in earlier betas to alert users if the AirPods battery is low, even if they are not actively in use, helping to ensure users don’t run out of battery unexpectedly.
Previously, the AirPods case only had one amber (yellow) light for charging or less-than-full charge and a green light for fully charged. The new addition of an orange light adds a more proactive and clear indication of case battery status independent of use or case position.
This update aims to keep AirPods users better informed and prevent interruptions by providing clear visual and notification cues for battery level.