AirDrum by Async Audio
AirDrum by Async Audio

AirDrum v2.3 by Async Audio

The app uses the iPhone’s built-in sensors to translate physical gestures into responsive drum hits. Swing your phone to trigger kicks, snares, or hi-hats — the harder the motion, the louder the hit. Choose from a growing library of drum kits, assign sounds to different gestures, and record short loops directly inside the app. A built-in XY pad lets you shape effects in real time while you play, adding expression without ever touching the screen.

What’s new in v2.3:

  • Full MIDI output via USB and wireless Network MIDI for sending drum hits into Logic Pro, Ableton Live, or any other DAW

With MIDI output now onboard, you connect your iPhone directly to your DAW and use physical movement to trigger drum parts — no drivers, no setup, just plug in via USB and start playing. The low-latency USB connection is responsive enough for real performance use. Keep the app on your phone as a portable idea generator or live performance controller that pairs with your iPad DAW setup. It’s strictly an iPhone app with no iPad or Mac version, but that’s exactly what makes it grab-and-go practical.

The interface stays clean and focused, so you jump in without reading a manual. The motion-based approach makes it surprisingly addictive for quick beat sketches, practice sessions, or spontaneous jamming. Free to download with optional paid drum kits means you can test the full workflow before spending anything.

Key features include:

  • Motion-based drumming using iPhone sensors for natural gesture triggering
  • Record and playback short loops directly in the app
  • MIDI output via USB (low-latency) and wireless Network MIDI
  • Compatible with Ableton Live and other DAWs as a motion controller
  • Integrated XY pad for real-time effects control
  • Growing library of drum kits with assignable sounds

App price: Free.
In-app purchases: Additional drum kits (prices vary).

Original release: January 26, 2026 (v1.0)  |  Latest update: March 4, 2026 (v2.3)