Previously it was only suitable for a select group of people, but nowadays all testers can also install (public) beta updates on your AirPods. Since the iOS 26-Bèta, Apple has made it easier to download and install the test version.
This beta is part of the Apple Beta Software Program and makes it possible to try out new functions before they are officially released. The process has become much easier since iOS 26 and can be activated directly on your iPhone (or Mac with MacOS Tahoe), without complicated steps.
Activate beta program
Before you can receive the AirPods beta’s, you must first activate the beta program on your iPhone, iPad or Mac. You can read back here exactly how you do that. In addition, everyone can register for the developer betas.
Once you are registered, you can download the beta on your iPhone or iPad via Settings ▸ General ▸ Software update. The beta for macOS download via ▸ System settings ▸ General ▸ Software update. Click here for more information about updating on other devices.
We recommend that you only install the betas on devices that you do not use every day. In the event of problems, a complete recovery of your device may be necessary. In addition, beta’s make your device troughs and the battery life is drastically shortened.
Beta updates for AirPods
Do you also want to provide your AirPods with beta software? Then you can easily activate this from iOS 26 and iPados 26. Keep in mind that the AirPods can only use the new functions when both device are equipped with the latest beta. With the help of the step -by -step plan you can easily activate the test version for AirPods.
- Link your AirPods to your iPhone or iPad
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Tap your AirPods in the list
- Scroll down to ‘Beta updates for AirPods’
- Enable the option of the same name
Firmware updates are installed when your AirPods are in the charging case and near the iPhone or iPad. You have no influence on how quickly this process is started.
The AirPods firmware update is a software update that has not yet been released. Your participation in this program is subject to and licensed under the conditions of the License Agreement of the Developer Program (“DPLA”). Tap ‘More information’ under the ‘Beta updates for AirPods’ button for more clarity.
Steps for Mac
For the time being it is not yet possible to install the beta updates for AirPods via a Mac. If this is possible you can do this via ▸ System settings ▸ Bluetooth ▸ Coupl the AirPods ▸ Click on the i-button next to the AirPods ▸ Beta updates for AirPods.
New for AirPods
Thanks to the firmware update, the AirPods Pro and AirPods 4 get 4 camera control functions, sleep detection and more new functions. Below an overview:
- Camera control functions with AirPods
- Sleep detection and automatic break
- Microphone mode of studio quality
- You will receive a notification on your Apple devices when your AirPods are fully charged
- You can be reminded of charging your AirPods when the battery is almost empty
- Possibility to automatically connect AirPods to CarPlay
- Keeps audio in headphones Ensures that playing audio via your AirPods and headphone is put forward when another playback device is connected, for example a loudspeaker
- Start an AirPods update manually