Apple Releases New AirPods Beta Firmware With Exciting Upcoming Features
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Apple has rolled out a new beta firmware update for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, bringing the build number up to 8A5343a (from 8A5324b). This update is part of Apple’s developer testing program, aimed at enabling new features and improving performance.
What’s Coming Soon
The beta firmware unlocks several upcoming AirPods features, including:
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Camera Remote Control – Press and hold the stem to take a photo or start/stop video on your iPhone or iPad.
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Studio-Quality Recording – Use AirPods as wireless microphones for high-quality audio capture on iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
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Clearer Calls – Improved voice isolation with advanced beamforming microphones.
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Auto-Pause During Sleep – AirPods can now detect when you’ve fallen asleep and pause playback automatically.
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Seamless CarPlay Switching – Instantly move audio between iPhone and CarPlay.
These features are expected to roll out more broadly in future software updates.
Important Notes
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Once installed, beta software cannot be removed from AirPods until Apple issues a public release.
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You’ll continue receiving beta updates automatically once enrolled.
Supported Devices
The beta program currently supports:
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AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C & Lightning models)
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AirPods 4
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AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
How to Enroll
Requirements: iOS 26 or macOS 26 beta or later.
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Connect your AirPods to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac running the latest beta.
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Open Bluetooth settings and tap the (i) next to your AirPods.
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Scroll to AirPods Beta Updates and toggle it on.
You can also enable AirPods Analytics Data for extra logging, which helps Apple debug issues. Logging automatically turns off after 96 hours.
Deals on AirPods (Today Only)
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AirPods Pro 2: $199 ($50 off)
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AirPods 4 with ANC: $148.99 ($30.01 off)
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AirPods 4: $99 ($30 off)
Takeaway: With Apple continuing to push new software-powered features for AirPods, your existing earbuds may soon feel like brand-new devices. If you don’t own AirPods yet, today’s discounts make it a great time to jump in.
