Using earbuds as a camera shutter

By Con, founder of Music Wide Selfie · Updated 22 October 2026

Short answerWired Apple EarPods: the volume button acts as the shutter in the Camera app. Some recent AirPods models with newer iOS versions can also act as a camera remote by pressing the stem; check your AirPods’ settings. Range is limited by the cable or Bluetooth distance.

Wired earbuds

Plug in, open the Camera app, press volume up or down to take a photo or start video.

AirPods

On supported AirPods and iOS versions, a camera remote option can appear in the AirPods settings. Availability varies by model.

Tips

The cable limits distance, so use it for close selfies.
Hide the cable in your sleeve.
Use the timer if pressing causes a shake.

Questions

Does it work in other apps?

Many camera apps support volume-button capture, but not all.

About Music Wide Selfie

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