Apple has released the fourth developer beta for the latest AirPods Pro 2 software, allowing testers to try out the nod and shake feature.
While AirPods firmware betas aren’t as common as those for other Apple devices, this update is important as it includes new features that need testing before the public release.
This beta update, version 7A5290a (up from 7A5266c), is available only for AirPods Pro 2, including both USB-C and Lightning versions. It’s not available for AirPods Max or other non-H2 devices.
The update includes features announced at WWDC, such as head-shaking gestures to respond to Siri, improved noise isolation, and personalized spatial audio for gaming.
How to Install the AirPods Beta Firmware
Apple makes it pretty simple to download and install beta versions of iOS and macOS, but AirPods firmware updates aren’t as straightforward.
The first step is to have a registered developer account, which is now free. Once you have that, follow these steps:
- Make sure Developer Mode is turned on by going to Settings → Privacy & Security → Developer Mode.
- If Developer Mode is already on or after you enable it, go to Settings → Developer.
- Scroll down and choose Pre-Release Beta Firmware under AirPods Testing.
- Select the AirPods you want to enroll in the beta.