Apple’s AirPods models are generally designed to perform fully only with iPhone and other Apple devices. These wireless headphones only offered basic audio streaming functions when connected to devices running Android or Linux operating systems. However, this situation is changing thanks to the open source and free LibrePods application. Developed by developer Kavish Devar, LibrePods allows Android and Linux users to experience the features that AirPods only offer to the Apple ecosystem.
The LibrePods app was developed by reverse engineering AirPods’ closed-source communication protocols. The application makes it possible for the headset to transmit system information by making it think that it is connected to the Apple device. Thus, functions such as headphone detection and control with head movements are activated via Android or Linux devices. In addition, personalization options such as speech awareness, which automatically lowers the sound during voice calls, switching between noise canceling modes, displaying the correct battery percentage, changing the headphone name, and hearing aid mode are also offered.
LibrePods doesn’t bring support for AirPods Pro 3’s heart rate sensor
In addition to all these, advanced connection features such as simultaneous connection with multiple devices can also be used. Although the application is generally compatible with all models of AirPods, it offers a wider range of functions, especially with AirPods Max and the last generation AirPods Pro models. However, the heart rate sensor in AirPods Pro 3 is not yet supported by LibrePods.
Installing LibrePods requires more action than a traditional Android app. Developer Devar notes that due to a bug in Android’s Bluetooth stack, the app can only fully run on rooted devices, provided they also have Xposed Framework installed. Although installation is possible without rooting on OnePlus and Oppo’s phones with ColorOS or OxygenOS 16 versions, some advanced features such as transparency mode cannot be used in this case.
However, the fact that the application is open source makes it easier for the software community to contribute. LibrePods, accessible via Github, is constantly updated with user feedback and continues to gain new functions. For Linux users, the application runs more smoothly and most of the basic features are supported.