Apple has officially released the first-ever public beta firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. If you’re excited to try out new features like Sleep-Pause and Camera Remote, here’s exactly how to download and install the AirPods public beta firmware using your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
What Is the AirPods Public Beta Firmware Update?
Revealed at WWDC 2025, the AirPods public beta brings major new features, and for the first time, Apple is letting public beta testers (not just developers) try them out. Key features include:
- Sleep-Pause: Pauses playback automatically when it detects you’re falling asleep
- Camera Remote: Use AirPods to control your iPhone’s camera
- Audio improvements and more
Requirements for Installing AirPods Public Beta Firmware
Before getting started, make sure you meet the following:
- AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods (4th generation)
- An Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) running:
- iOS 26 Public Beta
- iPadOS 26 Public Beta
- or macOS 26 Tahoe Public Beta
Sign Up for Apple’s Public Beta Program
If you’re not already enrolled:
- Open Safari on iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Visit beta.apple.com.
- Sign in with the Apple ID that’s paired to your AirPods and device.
- Follow the on-screen steps to enroll in the public beta program.
Option 1: Enable AirPods Public Beta Firmware on iPhone or iPad
- Connect your AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4 to your iPhone or iPad running iOS 26 or iPadOS 26.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on the AirPods banner at the top of the screen.
- Scroll down and tap on AirPods Beta Updates.
- Toggle on the Public Beta Firmware.
Option 2: Enable AirPods Public Beta on a Mac (macOS 26)
- Connect your AirPods to your Mac running macOS 26 Tahoe.
- Open System Settings.
- Scroll down and select the AirPods tab.
- Toggle on AirPods Beta Updates.
The firmware update will download and install in the background automatically when your AirPods are connected and charging.
Can You Force the Update?
Yes, but Apple doesn’t officially offer a “manual install” button. However, there are ways to trigger an update more quickly by keeping your AirPods connected and near your device while it’s on Wi-Fi and charging.
Why Install the AirPods Public Beta Firmware?
- Experience Sleep-Pause, Camera Remote, and other features early
- Stay ahead of the crowd with unreleased AirPods capabilities
- Help Apple improve firmware quality through feedback
Final Thoughts
This is a major first: Apple letting non-developers test AirPods firmware. If you own AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4, and you’re already running the latest public beta on your device, go ahead and try out AirPods Public Beta firmware today, it’s safe, easy, and free.
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