Overview
- Apple released developer-only AirPods beta firmware build 9A5336b on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, replacing the previous 9A5314b test build.
- The firmware adds support for iOS 27 features including a redesigned AirPods interface, an Adaptive mode slider, a three-band custom EQ, and compatibility with the new Siri AI.
- Build 9A5336b is available for AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2, showing Apple intends to cover multiple recent AirPods generations.
- Testers opt into the AirPods beta from the AirPods settings on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac and updates install automatically when the earbuds are connected to a paired device and to power, a process that can take several hours.
- Apple plans to open a public beta in the coming days and intends to ship the companion AirPods firmware broadly when iOS, iPadOS, and macOS 27 reach general release next month, so users should expect the full feature set only after both device and headset updates arrive.