Apple released another beta firmware update for several AirPods models on Friday, continuing preparations for new features coming with iOS 27 and macOS Golden Gate.
The firmware, build 9A5347a, is the fifth beta and is available for the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2. It’s available to both developers and public beta testers.
The release lays the groundwork for several changes Apple is making to AirPods this fall, including custom EQ controls, a redesigned settings interface, and more control over Adaptive mode.
Custom EQ is the most notable addition. Apple has traditionally offered little control over the way AirPods are tuned, but iOS 27 will let users adjust individual frequency bands and create their own sound profile.
Apple is also adding a slider for Adaptive mode. Rather than relying on a fixed balance between noise cancellation and outside sound, users will be able to adjust how much environmental noise their AirPods let through.
Those controls will live in a redesigned AirPods settings screen alongside existing options for noise cancellation, Transparency mode, and Spatial Audio.
The new firmware also prepares supported AirPods for Siri AI, the revamped assistant Apple plans to roll out across its devices this fall.
How to install the beta
The AirPods beta can be enabled from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac running iOS 26, iPadOS 26, or macOS 26 or later.
After connecting the AirPods, users can open the AirPods settings and enable beta firmware updates.
There isn’t a button to immediately download and install the firmware. Instead, Apple handles the update in the background while the AirPods are connected to an Apple device and charging. Installation can take several hours.
The beta is optional, and there’s little reason for most AirPods owners to install it solely to get ahead of the fall release. Its main purpose is to test compatibility with Apple’s upcoming operating systems before iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS Golden Gate are released publicly.
