Apple releases new beta firmware for AirPods

Apple is releasing a new beta version of firmware for AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. The version number is 5B5040c, where the previous one was 5A304a.

The previous AirPods firmware update, which was made available with the final version of iOS 16, added custom spatial audio and improved automatic switching. It also added support for the higher quality LC3 audio codec.

What about today’s version? Unfortunately there is no information. Apple doesn’t release any details, so it’s up to users to find out about any changes. A priori, there is no particular novelty with this new version, only fixes and other improvements. But again, there are no details about the patches in question. The same goes for availability for all: will it be with iOS 16.1 (coming this month)?

The beta firmware is intended for developers and is found on Apple’s website. Developers must have an iPhone running iOS 16 or an iPad running iPadOS 16. They also need a Mac running macOS Ventura, the Xcode 14 beta and of course compatible AirPods. You must connect the iPhone to the Mac with a Lightning cable and launch Xcode 14. The developer menu will appear on the iPhone and it will become possible to accept to receive the betas. According to Apple, it may take 24 hours for AirPods to install the new version.