With the release of macOS Tahoe 26 Beta 2, Apple has introduced a long-awaited feature — the ability to enroll AirPods in beta firmware updates directly from your Mac. It’s worth pointing out that this feature was first introduced on iOS and iPadOS 26, and now it’s available on macOS as well. So, if you are willing to activate the AirPods firmware update betas on your macOS Tahoe 26 device, let me help you get started on the right note:
Step 1. Connect your AirPods to your Mac.
First and foremost, ensure your AirPods are paired and actively connected to the Mac running macOS Tahoe 26 Beta 2.
Step 2. Open the System Settings app.
From the Apple menu, go to System Settings, then head to the Bluetooth section.
Step 3. Tap the (i) icon next to your AirPods.
Once your AirPods are connected, click the information (i) button beside the device name to access detailed settings.
Step 4. Scroll down and select “AirPods Beta Updates.”
On the device settings page, scroll to the bottom, and you’ll see a new section titled AirPods Beta Updates.
Step 5. Toggle the switch to enable beta updates.
Turn on the toggle to opt in. Your AirPods will receive beta firmware automatically when they’re placed in their charging case and near the Mac.
AirPods Beta Firmware Unlocks Some Exciting Features on Mac
The beta firmware includes exciting features such as,
- Studio-quality audio recording
- Improved sound for calls and videos
- The ability to use AirPods as a camera remote
- Sleep detection to auto-pause audio
Note: Currently, this feature is available only to Apple Developer Program members, but Apple plans to open it to public beta testers in July 2025, starting with AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2.
