Apple has released a fourth beta version of its AirPods firmware, build 9A5336b, to developers for the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2. The update is currently available only for developers, with the new firmware adding support for features coming in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS Golden Gate.
The release ties into Apple's upcoming OS updates, which introduce a new AirPods interface, a slider for Adaptive mode, and support for custom EQ. The beta firmware adds support for those features, and the AirPods are also compatible with the new Siri AI.
The custom EQ lets owners adjust a native 3-band equalizer with Low, Mid, and High controls directly in AirPods settings.
To install the update, developers can opt into the beta from the AirPods settings panel on a device running iOS 26, iPadOS 26, or macOS 26 or later. On iPhone or iPad, the toggle lives under Settings > Bluetooth, where tapping the Info button next to the AirPods reveals an About or AirPods Beta Updates section.
Once enabled, the firmware installs automatically while the AirPods are charging and within Bluetooth range of the host device.
The installation process is not a typical over-the-air update. Firmware can be downloaded by connecting the AirPods to an Apple device and connecting them to power, and it can take a few hours for the new build to install because there is no software update option like there is for other Apple devices.
The beta nature of the release carries real risk. Installing beta firmware is always risky regardless of the device or operating system, and Apple does not provide a user-friendly way to roll back to stable firmware if something goes wrong.
For owners who want to play it safe, waiting for the next stable software release for their AirPods is the alternative.
The rollout covers the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Max 2, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, and the standard AirPods 4. The fourth beta comes as Apple continues testing the firmware ahead of the iOS 27 launch.
