Apple Launches iOS 27 and AirPods Public Beta Updates

## Apple Inc. released the first public beta of iOS 27 on July 15, 2026, alongside a public beta firmware update (version 9.0.314) for several AirPods models. The software update emphasizes the integration of Apple Intelligence, featuring a redesigned Siri with more natural conversation capabilities, AI-powered emoji tools, and improved writing assistants. While iOS 27 supports iPhone 11 and newer models, the new AI-powered Siri is restricted to iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 and 17 models.

The accompanying AirPods firmware supports AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max 2. Key additions include a manual three-band custom equalizer to replace Adaptive EQ, a fine-tuning slider for Adaptive Audio, and head gesture controls. The update also enables Siri AI functionality on supported headphones and introduces GymKit support specifically for AirPods Pro 3.

Users can enroll through the Apple Beta Software Program, with firmware installations occurring automatically when devices are in charging cases near a paired iPhone running the beta. Apple plans to release Beta 4 on July 20 and Beta 5 on August 3, transitioning to weekly updates starting August 10. The company recommends data backups prior to installation due to potential bugs and battery instability. The final versions are expected to reach the general public in September.