Apple has released a new beta firmware for several AirPods models. This includes the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4. The new version has the build number 8B5034f and is currently only available to developers.
Specific information regarding new features or changes is not currently available. Nevertheless, the release demonstrates that Apple continues to actively work on the further development of its audio products.
Firmware updates on Apple devices usually run in the background and are often barely noticed by users. Nevertheless, they are a crucial part of the system. They ensure stability, improve performance, and can unlock new features or optimize existing ones.
The current beta firmware, build number 8B5034f, is part of this development process. It is intended exclusively for registered developers. The goal is to identify potential bugs early and gather feedback from testing before a final version is released publicly.
It's worth noting that Apple isn't currently testing any new iOS beta versions. This leaves open the question of what specific changes the new AirPods firmware will contain.
Which models are affected?
The new Apple beta firmware is available for the following models:
- AirPods Pro 2
- AirPods Pro 3
- AirPods 4
This update covers both the Pro series and the regular AirPods. Apple is therefore not focusing on individual devices, but updating multiple product lines simultaneously.
Build number 8B5034f – What is known?
The firmware has the build number 8B5034f. Apple has not released any further details regarding its content or changes. Since there is currently no iOS beta version being tested, no direct connection to new system features can be established. In many cases, AirPods firmware updates are linked to new versions of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS. This time, that context is missing.
It is therefore unclear whether these are bug fixes, performance optimizations, or preparatory adjustments for future updates.
Beta installation on iOS 26, iPadOS 26 and macOS Tahoe
With iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, Apple introduced a new way to install beta firmware for AirPods. Once the AirPods are connected to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, an option to install beta firmware updates appears in the AirPods settings. Developers can activate the beta option there, thereby unlocking beta downloads.
This feature significantly simplifies testing. The process is more transparent and directly accessible via the device settings. For developers, this means simplified management of firmware betas without additional steps.
Apple launches new beta firmware for several AirPods models
Apple has released a new beta firmware for the AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4, build number 8B5034f. This version is currently only available to developers.
No content or new features are currently known, especially since Apple isn't currently testing an iOS beta. However, thanks to the new installation option in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, activating and testing the beta firmware is easier than ever. Further details are expected to follow once Apple provides additional information or releases the final firmware version. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Sergey Eremin)
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