Overview
- Apple released developer-only AirPods firmware build 9A5314b on Tuesday to prepare supported models for iOS 27-era changes.
- The update targets AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max 2 so those models can run the new software tests.
- The firmware adds support for a redesigned AirPods settings interface, a customizable equalizer, and compatibility with Apple’s new Siri AI as part of iOS 27 feature testing.
- Developers must opt into an AirPods beta toggle in Settings and the firmware installs automatically while the earbuds charge and are near the paired device, a process that can take several hours and cannot be manually forced.
- Apple plans broader testing and a public beta later this month with a full iOS 27 and matching AirPods firmware release expected in the fall, a step that will decide which features reach users and which are limited by each model’s hardware.