A new beta firmware for the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4 has been released, though there are currently no details about its contents.
Following the public release of iOS 26.3 on Wednesday, Apple has deployed a new beta firmware for select AirPods and AirPods Pro models. Thursday's developer beta increases the build number to 8B5034f, up from previous versions like the 8A5308b update.
This beta software release is available for AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Pro 3. The software won't be made available for AirPods Max or other non-H2 devices.
All of Apple's devices and platforms, including AirPods, periodically receive firmware updates for developer testing. 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 before launch.
With the launch of iOS 26, Apple unveiled several new features for AirPods and AirPods Pro models. This includes camera controls and improved CarPlay hand-off, along with a new voice isolation mode powered by the H2 chip.
How to install beta firmware on your AirPods
Apple has made it relatively easy to download and install beta versions for iOS and macOS, and now that's the case for AirPods firmware updates as well.
Starting with iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe, AirPods users can opt for beta firmware updates when the earphones are first connected to an iPhone or Mac.
To enable beta firmware updates, do the following:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone, or System Settings on Mac
- Near the top of the screen, select your AirPods
- Scroll down and toggle AirPods Beta Updates
For developer beta updates to be installed, you will need to place your AirPods in their case, make sure they're connected to power, and within Bluetooth range of your iPhone.
