Use AirPods with Android devices: LibrePods app lands in the Play Store
The LibrePods app enables the use of numerous AirPods features on Android devices without root. Prerequisite: Android 16 QPR3 or Oxygen/ColorOS 16.
(Image: Ivan_Shenets/Shutterstock.com)
The Android app LibrePods has landed in the Play Store. This is an application that allows most AirPods Pro and Max functions to be used on Android devices as well. However, there are currently still some limitations.
From Android 16 QPR3 without root
The open-source app LibrePods for Android by developer Kavish Devar was only available via GitHub until a few days ago and required root access to adjust the functionality of certain Bluetooth components. This has apparently changed with the latest release and thanks to Google's work on the faulty Android Bluetooth stack – “or because Apple doesn't adhere to Bluetooth standards,” as the developer writes on Reddit. The app is now available for download in the Play Store, but it requires at least Android version 16 QPR3, which was released by Google in early March 2026.
This means that initially, only Google's Pixel devices from the 6th generation will support the app. However, according to the developer, OnePlus and Oppo have also adapted their Android overlays OxygenOS 16 and ColorOS 16 accordingly. According to him, other devices will only support it without root with Android 17.
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AirPods Pro 2 with full support
According to Devar, the app offers full support for the functions of the AirPods Pro 2 and 3, although the new generation does not support heart rate monitoring. The AirPods Max are also supported. All other AirPods models at least offer basic functions such as battery status and ear detection.
Some of the LibrePods features require a one-time purchase. The basic functions can be used free of charge.
(Image:Â Andreas Floemer / heise medien)
Supported functions include noise cancellation modes, adaptive transparency, battery display, conversation detection, head movements, and much more, with head movements and other features being paid; unlocking the features costs a one-time fee of 5 Euros.
The developer further states that the accuracy of the battery level is better than with other earbuds. Finally, the gestures – i.e., what happens when you long-press the AirPods stems – are also configurable, with the activation of voice assistants being part of the premium feature.
For users who are at home in Google's and Apple's ecosystems and own AirPods, the app sounds quite practical. It is also available for Linux.
(afl)
