Following the release of the first public betas for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27, Apple has now expanded its public beta program to include AirPods. For the first time, users can enroll their AirPods Max 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods (4th generation) in a public firmware beta program. This move allows early adopters to test upcoming AirPods features before they ship to the general public later this year.
First AirPods Public Firmware Betas Now Available
At WWDC26 last month, Apple unveiled several new AirPods features that will arrive alongside iOS 27 and related operating system updates. Among the highlights is custom EQ control, which gives users the ability to personalize their AirPods sound profile with a graphic equalizer. This addition brings a level of audio customization previously only available on third-party headphones. Additionally, expanded GymKit support will enable AirPods Pro 3 users to sync heart-rate data from their workouts directly through their iPhone, further integrating the fitness ecosystem.
Another significant development is the inclusion of AirPods Max 2 in the beta program. This is the first time Apple's over-ear headphones have received public beta firmware, signaling Apple's commitment to extending software support across its entire audio lineup. The company notes that enrollment is available through devices running iOS 27 or macOS 27 beta.
Supported AirPods Models
The following AirPods models are eligible for the first public beta firmware update, build 9.0.314 (9A5314b):
- AirPods Max 2
- AirPods Pro 3
- AirPods Pro 2
- AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)
- AirPods (4th gen)
- AirPods (4th gen, ANC)
The release build number matches the developer beta that was seeded last week, ensuring that public testers receive the same code as developers.
How to Install AirPods Firmware Beta
Apple has provided a clear guide for enrolling eligible AirPods in the firmware beta program. The process is straightforward and mirrors the developer beta enrollment flow:
Enable Beta Updates
The first step is to turn on beta updates for your AirPods. This can be done either from a Mac or an iPhone/iPad.
For Mac (macOS 27 beta or later)
Connect your AirPods to your Mac via Bluetooth. Open System Settings > Bluetooth, then click the (i) icon next to your AirPods. Scroll down in the AirPods settings menu to find the “AirPods Beta Updates” option and toggle it on.
For iPhone or iPad (iOS 27 beta or later)
Connect your AirPods to your iOS device. Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the (i) icon next to your AirPods, scroll down to “AirPods Beta Updates,” and enable the toggle.
Apple notes that once the “AirPods Beta Updates” switch is turned on, firmware updates will be installed automatically when the AirPods are in their charging case and are within Bluetooth range of the paired iPhone or Mac. This ensures a seamless update process without requiring manual intervention.
What to Expect from the Public Beta
The public beta firmware includes all the new features announced at WWDC26, such as custom EQ and GymKit sync. Users can also expect improvements to spatial audio and automatic device switching. However, because this is beta software, users may encounter bugs or performance issues. Apple encourages testers to provide feedback via the Feedback Assistant app.
The public beta program is separate from the developer beta program, which has been available since last month. By opening the program to the public, Apple hopes to gather a wider range of feedback and ensure a more stable release when the final firmware ships alongside iOS 27 in the fall.
Background: AirPods Firmware Updates
AirPods have long received firmware updates through iOS, but until recently, these updates were automatic and opaque to users. With the introduction of a dedicated beta program in 2023, Apple began allowing developers to manually control the firmware version installed on their AirPods. The public beta program now extends this capability to a broader audience.
The move to public betas for AirPods aligns with Apple's broader strategy of involving power users in the testing process. It also reflects the growing importance of AirPods as a platform for health and audio features. The custom EQ feature, for example, addresses a long-standing user request and positions AirPods more competitively against high-end headphones from Sony, Bose, and others.
GymKit support, originally launched with Apple Watch, has been expanded to work with AirPods Pro 3. This integration allows fitness data to flow seamlessly between devices, making the Apple ecosystem even more cohesive for athletes and gym enthusiasts.
Looking Ahead
The public beta period is expected to last until the final release of iOS 27, likely in September. During this time, Apple will likely release several beta iterations, each addressing bugs and adding refinements. Users who enroll in the public beta can expect to receive these updates over the air.
It's important to note that enrolling in the AirPods public beta requires that the paired iPhone, iPad, or Mac is also running the corresponding public beta of iOS 27, iPadOS 27, or macOS 27. Without the OS beta, the AirPods beta toggle will not appear.
For those who prefer stability, Apple recommends waiting for the final firmware release. But for adventurous users who want early access to the latest features, the public beta program offers a safe and controlled way to test new functionality.
As always, users should back up their devices before installing beta software and ensure they have a way to revert to a stable release if needed. Apple provides downgrade instructions for AirPods firmware, though the process is more involved than for iOS.
Source: 9to5Mac News