Apple Rolls Out Fresh Beta Firmware For Modern AirPods Models

Apple is giving testers another software update to try out. The company just released a new beta firmware build for several of its current AirPods models. This release allows both developers and public beta testers to check out the latest tweaks before they reach the general public. While the update process takes some patience, it gives users an early look at what is coming next for their wireless earbuds and headphones.

Connecting to power starts the automatic software installation process

The new beta firmware, carrying the build number 9B5045a, is available for a wide range of current generation audio devices. This list includes the AirPods Pro 2, the newer third generation Pro model, the standard fourth and fifth generation earbuds, and the over ear Max 2. As is typical with these pre-release audio updates, the company did not provide any detailed release notes. This means testers will have to figure out the changes as they listen and use the devices.

Getting the new software onto your earbuds is not a simple push of a button. Unlike updating an iPhone or an iPad, there is no menu setting to force the download to begin right away. Instead, the installation happens in the background. To get the process started, you need to connect your earbuds or headphones to an Apple device, such as a phone or a Mac, and plug them into a power source.

Even after you set everything up correctly, it can take a few hours for the new firmware to fully install. Users who are currently running the iOS 27 beta on their phone will find the beta switch in their settings menu. You simply need to take the earbuds out of their case to make the options appear.

This beta cycle shows that the tech giant is still actively refining how its audio gear performs. Testers willing to try out the software should keep their devices plugged in and wait for the silent update to complete.