Apple has released the new AirPods firmware public beta for supported devices alongside the latest public betas for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26. The latest release is now available to developers and public beta testers who want to try out the new AirPods features.
While Apple has released developer beta firmware for AirPods in the past, it"s the first time the company is pushing a public beta. That said, the new beta firmware is compatible with the following AirPods models:
- AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C)
- AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe Charging Case (Lightning)
- AirPods 4
- AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
You can install it on your AirPods paired with a device running iOS 26, iPadOS 26, or macOS 26 beta version. On an iPhone or iPad, you can go to Settings > Bluetooth and tap on the "i" button next to your AirPods. Next, scroll down to find the "AirPods Beta Updates" option and turn on the toggle button inside it.
The firmware update includes various new AirPods features Apple announced earlier this year at WWDC. Your AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 can now double up as a wireless camera remote for your iPhone or iPad. You can press and hold the stem of your AirPods to take a picture or start video recording.
Apple is bringing studio-quality audio recording to AirPods, which builds upon the Voice Isolation feature from last year. The feature, primarily designed for interviewers, podcasters, and other creators, enables users to record audio with improved sound quality in noisy environments or while on the go.
Studio-quality audio recording and improved call quality are available across iPhone calls, FaceTime, and CallKit-enabled apps. Apple said that the feature relies on the H2 chip, beamforming microphones, and computational audio to deliver more natural vocal texture and clarity.
While you may want to get your hands on the latest features quickly, keep in mind that beta software can be unstable and may contain bugs. Apple cautions that once installed, the beta software can"t be removed from your AirPods until a non-beta software version is released. However, your AirPods will get any new beta updates released in the meantime.