Apple’s AirPods, traditionally known for only offering full functionality within the Apple ecosystem, can now bring many of their best features to Android and Linux devices via a free third-party app called LibrePodsDeveloped by Kavish Devar, the app gives non-Apple users access to advanced AirPods capabilities those were the old days locked behind Apple’s operating systems.
LibrePods continues to work reverse-engineered Apple’s proprietary communications protocols. This allows the app to mimic the environment of an Apple device, convincing the AirPods to share detailed device information and enable features typically limited to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and other Apple platforms. As a result Android and Linux users can now enjoy a more complete AirPods experience.
The range of features enabled by LibrePods is extensive. It includes automatic ear detection, main gesture controlsAnd conversation awarenesswhich temporarily reduces the audio level when the user starts speaking. The app also provides access to noise control modeaccurate real-time battery information and various customization options. These customizations include accessibility settings, renaming the AirPods, adjusting transparency features, and enabling a hearing aid mode. Moreover, LibrePods improves connectivity for multiple devicesanother feature typically optimized for Apple devices.
According to the developer, LibrePods is compatible with all AirPods models. The most complete functionality is available when using AirPods Max or the latest generations of AirPods Pro. However, there are some limitations: for example heart rate measurement on the AirPods Pro 3 is currently not supported by the app.
Some limitations
Despite these improvements, installation is not entirely easy for most Android users. Because of what Devar describes as a bug in Android’s Bluetooth stackLibrePods only fully functions on Android phones that are rooted and have the Xposed framework installed. This requirement can be a barrier for users who are unfamiliar with rooting or unwilling to modify their devices.
However, there are exceptions. Owners of OnePlus or Oppo devices run ColorOS or OxygenOS 16 can install and run LibrePods without having to root their phones. Still, some features (such as the extended transparency mode customization) remain limited unless root access is granted.
LibrePods represents an important step toward broader cross-platform compatibility for AirPods, giving Android and Linux users access to advanced features that were once exclusive to Apple hardware.
Submitted . Read more about AirPods, Airpods Max and Android.
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