Apple has just released the second beta firmware 8A293c update for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 for download.
Anyone Running iOS 26, iPadOS 26, or macOS 26 Can Download This Second Beta Firmware 8A293c Update For AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, Here’s How
Just two weeks after WWDC, Apple is wasting no time pushing the iOS 26 vision into the AirPods lineup. The new beta firmware (build 8A293c) replaces the earlier 8A279d and continues the rollout of fresh features aimed at making AirPods more intelligent and multifunctional.
Here’s what you can test if you’re running the iOS 26 beta:
- Sleep Detection: Your AirPods can now tell when you doze off and automatically pause audio playback. A bedtime win.
- Camera Remote: Use your AirPods as a remote trigger for your iPhone’s camera, perfect for selfies, group shots, or filming TikToks without touching the screen.
- Improved audio quality for phone and video calls.
- Studio-grade audio recording, ideal for interviews, podcasts, or your next viral TikTok.
How to Install Beta Firmware 8A293c
For the first time, you can enroll your AirPods in beta testing directly from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac via the Settings app. No dev console gymnastics required.
Related: Download iOS 26 Beta 2 and iPadOS 26 Beta 2 OTA: How to Install and What’s New?
Related: macOS Tahoe 26 Beta 2 Released: Download Now on Your Mac
Keep in mind, this is beta software. Bugs may range from quirky to chaotic. Audio hiccups, feature flukes, or unexpected battery drain are all fair game in the land of pre-release builds.
Why It Matters
This update shows how Apple is evolving AirPods from just wireless earbuds into smart, multi-role accessories. With each firmware update, they’re getting closer to being tiny wearables that go beyond audio, especially with iOS 26 setting the stage for deeper device integration.
The sleep detection feature alone hints at future health and wellness tracking, while the camera remote makes your AirPods a low-key vlogging tool.
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