Apple has released the first firmware update for its upcoming AirPods Pro 3, just ahead of the product’s official launch on Friday, ensuring users receive the most up-to-date experience from day one.
The update comes on the heels of an earlier firmware release earlier this week, which accompanied the launch of iOS 26 for the iPhone 17 Pro. That initial build, designated 8A356, introduced support for seven brand-new features tailored to enhance AirPods functionality. Now, Apple has pushed a minor revision specifically for the AirPods Pro 3, carrying the build number 8A357.
According to reports, this latest firmware is not anticipated to deliver any significant user-facing changes. Instead, it appears to address a potential bug identified in the previous version, refining stability for Apple’s newest flagship earbuds. The AirPods Pro 3 represent a major upgrade in the wireless audio category, and this pre-launch tweak underscores Apple’s commitment to quality control.
For those eager to install the firmware immediately upon unboxing their AirPods Pro 3, Apple provides a straightforward set of instructions to facilitate the process. First, ensure your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is running the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS, with Bluetooth enabled. Connect the AirPods to your device via Bluetooth and link the device to a Wi-Fi network. Next, plug in the charging case to a power source, place both AirPods inside, and close the lid. Keep the setup within Bluetooth range and allow at least 30 minutes for the update to download and install automatically.
After the wait, open the case lid to reconnect the AirPods, then verify the firmware version through your device’s settings. Notably, Apple does not offer a manual trigger for AirPods firmware updates, unlike iOS software installations. The outlined steps serve as the official method to expedite the process, preventing delays in accessing the latest enhancements.
This firmware rollout highlights Apple’s proactive approach to software integration across its ecosystem. As the AirPods Pro 3 hit the market, users can expect seamless compatibility with the new features debuted in the initial build, bolstered by this quick-fix update. The earbuds are poised to build on the success of previous generations, incorporating advanced audio technologies amid growing demand for premium wireless headphones.
