AirPods Software Engineer, Sensing & Connectivity

Summary

Do you want to help make magic happen? Be part of the team that delivers exceptional
experiences like Spatial Audio, Precision Finding, Live Listen, and seamless connectivity across
Apple's world-class headphones and accessories. Join our team to drive innovation that matters
to millions of customers worldwide.
We provide the wireless foundation for Apple's innovative products such as AirPods and
AirTags, crafting technologies that enrich people's lives and deliver an unparalleled user
experience. We're looking for motivated engineers to design and implement amazing new
features across the Apple ecosystem - from deep embedded firmware to host-side frameworks.

Description

ring surprise and delight to our customers in this multi-faceted software role that forms the
pillar of AirPods, AirTags, and other accessories. You will be challenged with unique problems
spanning the full stack - from real-time embedded firmware to system frameworks - as you
build and develop software solutions for current and next-generation accessories.
What makes this role unique is the end-to-end ownership: our team owns critical software
components on both sides of the wireless connection - the embedded
firmware running on accessories and the system software on iOS/ visionOS devices. This dual
ownership gives us the power to craft seamless connected experience and innovate across the
entire stack. Whether you're debugging a tricky Bluetooth protocol issue, optimizing audio
latency, or implementing a new feature that spans accessory and host, you'll be solving unique
challenges that directly impact millions of users every day.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain embedded Bluetooth stack features on resource-constrained
accessories with real-time performance requirements
Design and implement system software, daemons, and frameworks on iOS/visionOS
Bring up new audio products and chipsets
Ensure secure and private wireless communications across Apple's ecosystem
Debug complex issues spanning iOS-device software and accessory firmware
Create diagnostic tools, telemetry systems, and testing infrastructure for cross-platform
features, working closely with QA
Collaborate with a wide variety of cross-functional teams to build and deliver end-to-end
experiences
Drive innovation on emerging wireless technologies and product features

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelorʼs degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or
equivalent experience
Strong C/C++ programming skills with attention to code quality, performance, and
maintainability
Solid understanding of systems programming concepts: memory management, concurrency,
state machines, and event-driven architectures
Strong analytical and debugging skills - ability to dig deep into complex problems
Thrive in collaborative environments with excellent written and verbal communication skills
Comfortable leveraging AI and LLM-based development tools (e.g., Claude Code) to enhance productivity across coding, debugging, and documentation workflows

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with Objective-C, Objective-C++, or Swift
Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS), embedded systems,
firmware, device drivers, or low-level system software
Knowledge of real-time audio or wireless technologies
Passion for product ownership and track record of delivering features end-to-end

Pay & Benefits — San Diego, California, United States

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $142,300 and $214,300, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.