New beta firmware for AirPods Pro 2 released ahead of iOS 18.1 launch

The company provides developer betas for nearly all of its platforms, including AirPods. While beta updates for Apple's mobile and desktop operating systems are released much more frequently, developers still rely on beta software for AirPods to test new features.

Tuesday's developer beta brings the AirPods Pro 2 software to build number 7B5013d, up from 7B5013c. This beta is only compatible with AirPods Pro 2, both the USB-C and Lightning versions, and is thus not available for AirPods Max or other non-H2 devices.

While it is unclear what the latest developer beta includes, the AirPods Pro 2 wireless earbuds are set to receive new hearing aid and hearing test features later in 2024. The hearing assistance functionality, originally announced at Apple's 'Glowtime' event in June, will help users with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Settings for the AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid features have previously appeared in developer betas of iOS 18.1, following the feature's FDA approval in September of 2024.

How to install the AirPods beta firmware

Apple has made it relatively easy to download and install beta versions for iOS and macOS, but that's not the case for AirPods firmware updates.

The first step in the process is to have a registered developer account, which is now free. Once you do that, follow these steps:

• Ensure Developer Mode is enabled in Settings -> Privacy & Security -> Developer Mode.
• If it is enabled or after enabling it, go to Settings -> Developer.
• Near the bottom, select Pre-Release Beta Firmware under AirPods Testing.
• Select which AirPods you'd like to enroll in the beta.

You can watch the video above to see the process if you need any assistance. Be aware that sometimes the Developer Mode might not pop up as required in the process, which means connecting the iPhone to a Mac running the current Xcode beta.