Apple Releases New AirPods Pro 3 Firmware Update
▼ Summary
– Apple has released new firmware for AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4 with build number 8A358.
– The company has not specified the changes, but it likely includes bug fixes and improvements.
– This update may prepare AirPods for Live Translation expansion in the upcoming iOS 26.1 release.
– AirPods firmware updates do not follow a set schedule and often do not align with iOS updates.
– Users cannot manually install the firmware; it updates automatically when following Apple’s guidance.
Apple has rolled out a fresh firmware update for several of its popular wireless earbuds, including the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4. This release arrives just ahead of the anticipated iOS 26.1 update, bringing the latest enhancements to users’ audio experience.
The new firmware carries the build number 8A358. This represents an increment from the previous versions, which were 8A356 for the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, and 8A357 for the AirPods Pro 3. As is often the case with these incremental updates, Apple has not provided a detailed changelog outlining the specific alterations or new features included.
Typically, such firmware releases focus on bug fixes and performance improvements, addressing minor issues to ensure smoother operation. There is also speculation that this update may lay the groundwork for expanded Live Translation capabilities in iOS 26.1, potentially adding support for additional languages. The iOS 26.1 update itself is still undergoing beta testing, with a public release projected for later this month.
The rollout schedule for AirPods firmware is notably less predictable compared to updates for Apple’s operating systems. New firmware for the earbuds often appears either slightly before or after a related iOS update, rarely aligning perfectly. This irregularity is partly due to the unique way these updates are installed on the devices.
Unlike with iPhones or iPads, users cannot manually trigger a firmware installation for their AirPods. The process is designed to be automatic. To receive the update, you simply need to follow Apple’s recommended procedure: place your AirPods in their charging case, connect the case to a power source, and then place your paired iPhone or iPad nearby. The update will download and install on its own without any user intervention required.
Have you received the new firmware on your AirPods? If so, have you observed any noticeable changes in performance or new features? Share your observations in the comments section below.
(Source: 9to5Mac)
