Apple now makes it simple to put in pre-release AirPods firmware in your wi-fi earbuds. This as soon as was an possibility for under a choose few builders, however now it’s obtainable to anybody prepared to place probably buggy software program on their AirPods.
The temptation is comprehensible. The upcoming iOS 26 brings a spread of enhancements to Apple earbuds, however unreleased AirPods firmware is required to benefit from them. Set up it, and also you’ll get improved audio recording, auto-pause when sleeping, and rather more.
Feeling courageous? Let’s go.
p.s. Not on the lookout for the pre-release model? We even have a information on set up the common non-beta AirPods software program.
Warning: Learn this primary
Earlier than you get began, don’t skim previous an vital warning. At the moment, there’s no option to uninstall AirPods firmware. When you set up a beta, it may solely get replaced with a brand new beta model or a full launch model when that’s obtainable. There’s no option to return to a earlier model.
So if AirPods firmware causes issues with an utility you want or only one you take pleasure in, you may’t stroll it again. All you are able to do is hope the issue will get cleared up with the subsequent model. Or purchase new AirPods…
That is particularly vital as a result of you can also’t do what we’d usually suggest: put the beta on an previous set of earbuds. The latest pre-release firmware works solely with AirPods 4 and AirPods Professional 2.
You’ve been warned.
Easy methods to set up AirPods firmware early
The essential first step in putting in pre-release AirPods firmware is placing iOS 26 in your iPhone. Or iPadOS 26 in your pill, for those who usually use the AirPods with that laptop. You should utilize the general public betas launched lately for this — you don’t should be a developer.
Subsequent, join your AirPods 4 or AirPods Professional 2 to your iPhone or iPad. This is so simple as opening the earbuds charging case whereas utilizing the iDevice of your alternative.
Screenshots: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
Now, open the Settings app and search for your earbuds to be listed close to the highest. Faucet on that itemizing.
This opens a display with settings for the accent. Scroll down till you see AirPods Beta Updates and faucet on it.
As the ultimate step, on the ensuing display, flip on the toggle swap subsequent to AirPods Beta Updates.
Screenshots: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
Now it’s a must to await the AirPods firmware to be put in — it’s not so simple as urgent a button. “Firmware updates might be put in when your AirPods are of their charging case and close by this iPhone,” says Apple. Give it a while, then test once more later.
What comes with iOS 16 and new AirPods firmware
There are two the explanation why you is likely to be focused on making an attempt out pre-release AirPods firmware. For one, it’s by no means been simpler.
However the primary cause is that iOS 26 ushers in so many cool new options. You may use AirPods as a digital camera distant, or you may use your AirPods as an exterior microphone when recording movies. Plus, your AirPods mechanically pause no matter’s enjoying after they detect you could have fallen asleep, and can mechanically hand off to CarPlay.
And that’s not all. There are different enhancements on the way in which. Make sure you learn our information on how iOS 26 will improve your AirPods expertise for extra particulars.
