Apple has quietly pushed a new firmware update for its latest premium earbuds — AirPods Pro 2 and the newly launched AirPods Pro 3. The rollout includes:
- AirPods Pro 2 → Firmware 8B28
- AirPods Pro 3 → Firmware 8B30
The update is now available to all users running iOS 17, iOS 18, or iOS 26.x, and Apple says the new firmware delivers performance improvements, bug fixes, and enhanced stability, especially for users experiencing connection drops or inconsistent Adaptive Audio behavior.
Apple Releases New Firmware for AirPods Pro 2 (8B28) and AirPods Pro 3 (8B30): What’s New & How to Update
While Apple does not publish full changelogs for AirPods firmware, early reports from Reddit and Apple community forums indicate:
✔ Better Bluetooth stability
✔ Improved Adaptive Audio switching
✔ Reduced crackling/static sounds for some users
✔ More reliable device handoff between iPhone, iPad, and Mac
✔ Faster pairing for AirPods Pro 3
Users who had occasional noise issues, transparency mode glitches, or battery percentage mismatches may see improvements after installing the update.
How to Check Your AirPods Firmware Version
You can confirm the new firmware using your iPhone:
- Open Settings
- Tap Bluetooth
- Find your AirPods Pro in the list
- Tap the (i) icon
- Look for Firmware Version
You should see:
- 8B28 on AirPods Pro 2
- 8B30 on AirPods Pro 3
How to Update AirPods Pro Firmware (Automatic)
Apple does not allow manual firmware installs. Updates happen automatically when these conditions are met:
- AirPods are inside the case
- Case is charging
- iPhone or iPad is nearby
- Bluetooth is turned on
📌 Tip:
Plug your case into power and place your iPhone next to it for 10–15 minutes. This usually triggers the update.
Troubleshooting: AirPods Firmware Not Updating
If your firmware won’t update:
1. Forget & Reconnect AirPods
- Settings → Bluetooth → Tap (i) → Forget This Device
- Re-pair your AirPods
2. Restart iPhone
A fresh Bluetooth session helps.
3. Charge Everything
- AirPods inside case
- Case at least 50% battery
- iPhone above 20% battery
4. Keep Them Close
AirPods must remain near your iPhone with the lid closed.
5. Update Your iPhone
A newer iOS version may improve firmware delivery.
Bottom Line
The new firmware updates 8B28 and 8B30 bring improved overall stability to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Pro 3, with smoother connectivity and better Adaptive Audio performance. If your AirPods haven’t updated yet, just charge them next to your iPhone — the update will install automatically.
