Apple Pushes New Firmware Update for AirPods Pro 3

Apple has initiated the rollout of a new firmware update for its latest AirPods Pro 3, marking the first significant update since the previous version released last month. This move signals Apple's ongoing commitment to refining the user experience through incremental software enhancements.

What's in the 8B40 Update?

The latest firmware, identified as build 8B40, is now being delivered to AirPods Pro 3 devices. It follows the 8B39 version that was distributed to the full lineup of recent AirPods models, including AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. While Apple has not yet updated its official release notes page with specifics for 8B40, historical patterns suggest the update likely contains "Bug fixes and other improvements." These types of updates are crucial for maintaining stability, improving connectivity, and addressing minor issues reported by users.

The timing of this release is notable, as it precedes the expected launch of iOS 26.5 in the coming weeks. Often, AirPods firmware updates are released to ensure compatibility and support for new features introduced in upcoming iOS versions. Although the 8B40 firmware is currently exclusive to the AirPods Pro 3, it is possible that it will be extended to the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 in the near future, mirroring the rollout strategy of the previous update. There is currently no way for users to manually force the update; it installs automatically when the AirPods are connected to an iOS device and charging.