AirPods Beta Firmware 8A279d: Here’s What’s New and How to Try It

AirPods Beta Firmware 8A279d: Here’s What’s New and How to Try It

Apple just dropped a beta firmware update (build 8A279d) for AirPods Pro 2 and the newly announced AirPods 4, and it’s packed with features that go far beyond your average earbuds. If you're a developer—or just someone who loves being on the cutting edge—here’s what’s new and how you can get early access.

What’s Coming in the Beta?

The AirPods beta firmware unlocks a powerful new toolset focused on content creation, intelligent audio behavior, and deeper ecosystem integration:

  • Studio-Quality Audio Recording
    Use your AirPods as wireless mics to capture crisp voice recordings on iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Perfect for creators using apps like Camera, Voice Memos, or even Webex and FaceTime.

  • Remote Camera Shutter Control
    Creators, rejoice: press and hold the AirPods stem to take a photo or start/stop a video recording. Ideal for self-shooting or hands-free recording with your phone propped up.

  • Improved Call Quality with Voice Isolation
    Beamforming microphones and Voice Isolation make your voice sound clearer during calls, FaceTime, and video conferencing—especially in noisy environments.

  • Sleep Detection Pause
    If your AirPods detect you’ve fallen asleep, they’ll automatically pause playback, saving your battery and your place.

  • Seamless CarPlay Handoff
    Start listening on your iPhone and automatically switch to your car’s audio when CarPlay connects. No manual toggling required.

Compatible AirPods Models

This beta supports:

  • AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C & Lightning versions)

  • AirPods 4

  • AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation

How to Install the Beta Firmware

Important: Once installed, beta firmware cannot be removed manually. You’ll continue receiving future beta updates until the public release rolls out.

On iPhone or iPad (iOS 26 beta required)

  1. Connect your supported AirPods.

  2. Go to Settings > Bluetooth.

  3. Tap the (i) next to your AirPods.

  4. Scroll to AirPods Beta Updates.

  5. Toggle on Enable Beta Updates.

On Mac (macOS 26 beta required)

  1. Connect your supported AirPods.

  2. Go to System Settings > Bluetooth.

  3. Click the (i) next to your AirPods.

  4. Scroll down to AirPods Beta Updates.

  5. Toggle on Enable Beta Updates.

Want to Help Apple Improve the Firmware?

You can optionally enable AirPods Logging (AirPods Analytics Data), which collects temporary diagnostic files to help Apple fix bugs and improve performance.

  • Logging lasts for 96 hours after activation and turns off automatically.

  • The toggle is found in the same AirPods Beta Updates menu as the firmware toggle.

Don’t Have Compatible AirPods?

If you want in on the beta features, today’s deals make it a good time to upgrade:

  • AirPods Pro 2 – $169 ($80 off)

  • AirPods 4 (with ANC) – $148.99 ($30.01 off)

  • AirPods 4 – $99 ($30 off)

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