Apple has opened its AirPods firmware beta program to the public, making the first public beta builds available for AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Max 2, and AirPods 4th-generation models running firmware version 9.0.314 (build 9A5314b).
The rollout came one day after Apple released the first public betas of iOS 27, watchOS 27, macOS 27, and iPadOS 27 on July 13.
Anyone who enrolled in those software betas can now also opt their AirPods into the firmware beta program directly through Bluetooth settings on iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
What the new firmware unlocks for everyday listeners
The features coming through these firmware updates were announced at WWDC26 last month.
Custom EQ controls are among the most practical additions, letting users tune how their AirPods sound without relying on third-party apps or workarounds.
Right now, AirPods offer no built-in way to boost bass, cut treble, or adjust midrange frequencies to match personal preference. However, that’s about to change with iOS 27.
AirPods Pro 3 users who own an iPhone will also get access to heart-rate tracking at the gym through expanded GymKit support.
The feature routes biometric data through the iPhone rather than requiring an Apple Watch, which gives AirPods Pro 3 owners a fitness capability that previously required a separate device purchase.
How to enroll your AirPods in the public beta
Enrollment requires a device already running iOS 27 beta or macOS 27 beta. Once that condition is met, the process is straightforward.
On iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Bluetooth.
- Tap the information icon next to your AirPods.
- Scroll down within AirPods Settings and toggle on AirPods Beta Updates.
The steps on Mac follow the same path through System Settings and Bluetooth.
After enabling the toggle, the firmware installs automatically. Apple specifies that updates will apply when the AirPods are sitting in their charging case and physically close to the paired iPhone or Mac, so no manual intervention is required once enrollment is active.
This is also the first time AirPods Max 2 owners have had access to any firmware betas. Prior generations of AirPods Max were excluded from Apple’s beta firmware track.
So the inclusion of AirPods Max 2 in this cycle represents a change in how Apple handles early software access for its over-ear headphones.
The public firmware beta build, 9A5314b, matches what developers received last week, meaning public beta testers are starting at the same point rather than a step behind.
