New AirPods Pro 2 Beta Features: What’s Included in iOS 26?

Apple's iOS 26 public beta is out, and for the first time, it's accompanied by beta firmware for the AirPods Pro 2 and upcoming AirPods 4. If you're wondering what new AirPods Pro 2 beta features are available, the short answer is: enhanced audio personalization, improved device switching, and better voice isolation. These features aim to give your AirPods an upgraded experience ahead of their official release. However, trying out the beta isn't as simple as hitting "update"—it requires installing iOS 26, iPadOS 26, or macOS 26. And while getting early access is exciting, there are real risks to consider.

How to Access AirPods Pro 2 Beta Features on iOS 26

To explore the new AirPods Pro 2 beta features, you'll first need to install the iOS 26 public beta from Apple’s official site (beta.apple.com). Once your iPhone or iPad is running iOS 26 or iPadOS 26, your connected AirPods Pro 2 will automatically be eligible for the firmware beta. There’s no separate update button for the AirPods firmware—it installs silently in the background. That means if you proceed with the iOS 26 beta, you're also opting into an unfinished version of the AirPods experience. Make sure your devices are backed up, and expect some bugs as this is not a polished release.

Benefits and Risks of Trying AirPods Pro 2 Beta Features

The appeal of early access is clear: better sound clarity in noisy environments, smarter transitions between Apple devices, and a peek at what’s coming in the next-gen AirPods 4. However, the beta has its downsides. Bugs can cause audio glitches, disconnects, or reduced battery performance. Most concerning is that unlike iOS, the AirPods firmware beta cannot be manually rolled back. If the update breaks something, you’ll be stuck with it until Apple releases a stable fix. For tech-savvy users who love experimenting, it might be worth it. For everyone else, the wait for the final release might be the safer choice.

Should You Install the AirPods Pro 2 Beta Features or Wait?

Deciding whether to try the AirPods Pro 2 beta features ultimately comes down to risk tolerance. If you're someone who enjoys testing cutting-edge updates and doesn't mind potential hiccups, installing iOS 26 and the accompanying firmware could be fun and rewarding. But for those who rely on their AirPods daily for work, calls, or commuting, it's better to hold off until the official release. Apple’s final versions are just months away, and they’ll come with full support, fewer bugs, and a safer path forward for your devices.