Probably the most underrated new options in iOS 26 is attempting out new AirPods options earlier than they’re launched to everybody else. Sure, Apple’s latest working system now allows you to obtain and set up beta firmware updates to your AirPods. Here is the whole lot it’s good to know to do this out your self, and a fast checklist of the options you possibly can attempt instantly.
Do not replace your AirPods recklessly
First, in case you worth reliability over the whole lot else, I might advocate in opposition to putting in beta firmware in your AirPods. It is because betas should not as polished as launch variations, and should include bugs. On your AirPods, that might imply frequent disconnection, audio slicing out, pairing points, degraded mic high quality, or one in every of many different potential pitfalls. This is not to say that you’re going to all the time face points when utilizing betas, however there’s all the time a danger of encountering issues. Whereas it is attainable to return to a steady model of iOS or macOS even after putting in a beta model, you possibly can’t accomplish that with AirPods. It is necessary to know the dangers earlier than you choose to attempt these beta options out.
What it’s good to check out beta AirPods firmware
To check out beta firmware in your AirPods, you will first have to have an iPhone/iPad operating iOS 26/iPadOS 26, or finally, a Mac operating macOS 26. The next AirPods fashions help beta firmware:
Easy methods to set up AirPods beta firmware
With the preamble apart, the precise set up course of for AirPods beta firmware is pretty easy. In your iPhone operating iOS 26, join your AirPods and go to Settings > Bluetooth. Faucet the i button subsequent to your AirPods’ title, scroll down, and faucet AirPods Beta Updates. On the following web page, allow the toggle that exhibits up. These directions additionally work for gadgets operating iPadOS 26.
What do you suppose to this point?
Mac customers must wait slightly bit earlier than they’ll set up beta firmware to their AirPods, however Apple says it is coming quickly. As soon as the function is reside, you will have to go to System Settings > Bluetooth in your Mac and faucet the i button subsequent to your AirPods’ title. Choose AirPods Beta Updates and allow them.
The brand new iOS 26 options you possibly can attempt in your AirPods now
The beta replace comes with plenty of new Airpods options, so there isn’t any scarcity of issues to attempt. Listed here are the massive ones:
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Digicam distant: You possibly can press the stem of your AirPods to take a photograph together with your iPhone, or to begin/cease a video recording.
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Higher name high quality: Apple’s promising improved audio high quality on cellphone calls, FaceTime calls, and for different calling apps.
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Maintain audio on AirPods: When your iPhone connects to different Bluetooth gadgets, you can select to maintain enjoying audio by way of your AirPods.
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‘Studio-quality’ recording: Apple says your AirPods’ mic will be capable of document larger high quality audio in iOS 26.
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Auto-pause at bedtime: While you put on your AirPods to mattress, they will be capable of pause audio routinely as you go to sleep.
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Automated switching with CarPlay: You may discover that your iPhone’s audio routinely switches to CarPlay as you enter your automotive.
