Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 are among the top earbuds available, but Android users may find their experience limited compared to those using Apple devices. While you can pair AirPods Pro 3 with any Android phone via Bluetooth, many advanced features—like ear detection, noise control modes, battery status, and conversational awareness—ordinarily remain inaccessible without help from third-party tools.
Unlocking More Features with LibrePods
Thanks to LibrePods, a new Android app, you can enjoy much of the AirPods experience that was previously exclusive to iPhone users. LibrePods enables features like automatic ear detection—music pauses when you remove an earbud and resumes when you put it back in—noise cancellation and transparency controls, battery level indicators for each earbud and the case, and conversational awareness that lowers audio when you start speaking. Gesture controls for functions like answering calls with a head nod and even device renaming are also available.
The Root Requirement
To access the full suite of AirPods features on Android, LibrePods requires your device to be rooted. This is because the app uses reverse engineering to mimic the private Apple protocols, giving your AirPods the impression they’re connected to an Apple device. Root access lets the app communicate deeply with AirPods, unlocking richer functionality, but comes with risks, such as voided warranties, possible software issues, and security flags on certain brands like Samsung.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Rooting is less common in 2025, and not recommended for every user. Still, the development of LibrePods means Android owners can finally access near-native AirPods controls and features—making the earbuds a more viable option, even outside the Apple ecosystem. Alternative apps like OpenPods offer basic battery readings and playback controls, but none match LibrePods’ integration and range, apart from heart rate monitoring, which remains exclusive to Apple hardware.
Final Thoughts
For Android users invested in AirPods, LibrePods is a breakthrough—unlocking features that help bridge the gap with Apple’s native experience. If you’re comfortable with rooting your device, the app brings an impressive set of AirPods capabilities to Android, although you’ll still miss certain health-tracking features like heart rate, which require an Apple device.
