Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update is set to introduce a new and expanded lighting system for AirPods charging cases, particularly affecting AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. This update signifies a rare change to the functionality of the charging case itself, a common occurrence for AirPods features with each major iOS release.

A screenshot from iOS 26 beta 5, shared by Minimal Nerd on X, reveals a new pop-up notification detailing three distinct indicator light colors for charging status. These are: “Green: Charged,” “Yellow: Charging,” and “Orange: Charge Case.” This expanded color scheme goes beyond Apple’s current support documentation, which only mentions green and amber indicator lights. Concerns have been raised regarding the subtlety between the yellow and orange indicators, potentially making it difficult for users to differentiate between “Charging” and “Charge Case” statuses.

The text accompanying the screenshot states, “The AirPods charging case now more clearly indicates charging status and AirPods will remind you when it’s time to charge.” This new system is also supported by code within iOS 26, as noted by Juli Clover at *MacRumors*, which includes the same wording regarding the charging case’s improved status indication. Beyond the charging case updates, iOS 26 will also feature new charging notifications for AirPods, akin to existing Dynamic Island battery indicators, informing users when to charge and when their AirPods are fully charged.