Apple is rolling out fresh beta firmware for several AirPods models today, including the newly launched AirPods Pro 3.
If you are enrolled in Apple’s developer beta program for AirPods, a new update may already be installing in the background.
Here’s what you need to know.
New beta build 8B5034f
Apple has released beta firmware build 8B5034f for three models:
- AirPods Pro 3
- AirPods Pro 2
- AirPods 4
The last beta firmware for these devices arrived late last year, making this the first developer-facing AirPods update of 2026.
At this stage, Apple has not published detailed release notes outlining what changes are included. As is typical with AirPods firmware updates, new features or improvements often surface gradually through testing.
Suggested: Download iOS 26.3 IPSW and iPadOS 26.3 IPSW (Direct Links)
How it compares to current public firmware
The latest public firmware builds differ slightly across models:
- AirPods Pro 3: 8B34
- AirPods Pro 2: 8B28
- AirPods 4: 8B21
Beta firmware does not always follow the same numbering structure as public releases, so version differences are not unusual.
Given the timing, this update could include refinements tied to iOS 26 compatibility, stability improvements, or under-the-hood audio tuning adjustments. However, Apple has not confirmed specifics.
How to install the AirPods beta firmware
Unlike iOS updates, there is no manual “Install Now” button for AirPods firmware.
To receive the beta:
- You must be running the developer beta on your paired iPhone.
- Opt into AirPods beta updates via the AirPods settings menu in the Settings app.
- Ensure your AirPods are connected to power and near your iPhone.
Once configured properly, the firmware installs automatically in the background.
This process mirrors how public AirPods firmware updates work, except beta enrollment must be enabled first.
