Apple releases fifth AirPods beta firmware with iOS 27 support
Apple released beta firmware build 9A5347a for AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2, making it available to developers and public beta testers.
MacRumors reported that the initial public testing phase for iOS 27 is expected to begin in July, following historical software release patterns.
The outlet points to previous release windows suggests that the first public beta for iOS 27 will likely arrive between the second and fourth week of July.
This provides a timeline for non-developers to safely explore the new Liquid Glass design and Siri AI features before the final fall release.
The reporter is citing established Apple release windows and official company timelines provided at WWDC.
Start with the primary evidence, then review supporting sources and context.
“iOS 27 Public Beta is Coming Soon Tuesday July 7, 2026 12:03 pm PDT by Joe Rossignol Apple previously announced that the first iOS 27 public beta would be released in July, meaning”
Recommended from Apple topics and recent confidence changes
MacRumors said evidence in Apple’s code points to Apple Wallet ID support coming to four additional U.S. states. The report also noted North Carolina is preparing its own mobile ID rollout, with Wallet support to follow later.
MacRumors reported that Apple is hiring for a Fitness+ studio producer role that asks for live production experience and curiosity about live formats. The listing suggests Apple may be exploring new directions for the service, even though it does not spell out any live class plans.
9to5Mac reported that watchOS 27 appears to expand the Modular Apple Watch face with nine new color choices, based on code found in an iOS 27 beta. The outlet said the beta does not yet show the colors in preview form.
MacRumors says Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports Apple is considering a ceramic Apple Watch finish again, possibly as soon as this year. The outlet also notes the next models may focus on modest changes plus some new color, band, health, and performance updates.