Apple Rolls Out New AirPods Firmware 8A358 — Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Apple Rolls Out New AirPods Firmware 8A358 — Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Apple has just released a brand-new firmware update—version 8A358—for the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and the latest AirPods 4 models. While Apple hasn’t officially detailed all the changes yet, this update follows the previous 8A356 release that brought a wave of impressive features.

So, even if Apple’s release notes are still under wraps, there’s a good reason to be excited—especially if you’re a fitness enthusiast, language learner, or someone who just loves crystal-clear calls and audio.

Let’s unpack what’s new, what’s improved, and how you can check your AirPods firmware version.

Fitness Meets Audio: Heart Rate Tracking on AirPods Pro 3

One of the most talked-about features introduced in the previous 8A356 firmware—and now supported by the new 8A358—is heart rate sensing on AirPods Pro 3.

When paired with an iPhone running iOS 26, your AirPods can now track:

  • Heart rate

  • Calories burned

  • Steps taken

  • Distance covered

All of this integrates seamlessly with the Fitness app, covering up to 50 different workout types. Think of it as turning your AirPods into tiny, wireless fitness coaches.

Live Translation on AirPods

Another standout feature from the recent updates is Live Translation with AirPods, which is now expanding in capability. This feature works on:

  • AirPods 4 (with Active Noise Cancellation)

  • AirPods Pro 2 and later

When connected to an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone running iOS 26, your AirPods can translate conversations in real time—no typing or tapping required.

Currently supported languages include:
🇬🇧 English (UK, US), 🇫🇷 French (France), 🇩🇪 German (Germany), 🇧🇷 Portuguese (Brazil), and 🇪🇸 Spanish (Spain).

And the good news doesn’t stop there—Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, and Italian are coming later this year.

 Note: Live Translation isn’t available for EU-based users due to regional regulations. But Apple Intelligence users outside the EU can enjoy it worldwide.

Enhanced Hearing Aid Experience

Apple continues to make accessibility a top priority. Firmware 8A358 (and 8A356 before it) boosts the experience for Hearing Aid users when connected to an iPhone or iPad running iOS 26 or iPadOS 26.

Now, your voice—and the voices of people you’re speaking to—sound more natural. Plus, automatic Conversation Boost dynamically amplifies voices in front of you while reducing background noise.

Whether you’re chatting in a bustling café or a noisy office, you’ll hear more clearly and comfortably.

Studio-Quality Audio for Calls, Videos, and More

AirPods aren’t just for listening—they’re evolving into full creative tools. The 8A358 firmware builds on Apple’s push to make AirPods a studio in your ears.

With this update, AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with ANC, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Pro 3 now support:

  • Studio-quality vocal recordings for Voice Memos, Messages dictation, and video shoots.

  • Camera Remote Control — capture photos or videos at a distance with a simple press-and-hold on the stem.

  • Improved call and FaceTime quality, with richer tone and clearer speech.

It’s ideal for content creators, vloggers, and anyone who relies on AirPods for communication and creativity.

Smarter Everyday Features

Apple has also improved subtle but meaningful features:

  • Charging reminders to help you stay powered up.

  • Automatic Switching, now including CarPlay—so your music or call transitions seamlessly between devices.

  • Sleep mode pause — your AirPods automatically pause media when they detect inactivity as you drift off.

These small enhancements make everyday AirPods use smoother and more intuitive.

How to Check Your AirPods Firmware Version

Want to see if your AirPods are already running the latest firmware (8A358)? It’s easy.

On iPhone or iPad:

  1. Make sure you’re running the latest iOS or iPadOS.

  2. Go to Settings → Bluetooth.

  3. Tap the ⓘ Info button next to your AirPods name.

  4. Scroll down to About → Firmware Version.

On Mac:

  1. Ensure your Mac is on the latest macOS.

  2. Click Apple Menu  → System Settings → Bluetooth.

  3. Click the ⓘ Info button next to your AirPods.

How to Update Your AirPods Firmware

Apple has finally published official instructions on updating AirPods firmware—something users have long requested.

You can check the full guide here: How to Update AirPods Firmware (Apple Support link).

Typically, AirPods update automatically when connected to a charging case, your iPhone, and Wi-Fi. Just make sure they’re nearby and plugged in, and the update happens in the background.

Thinking of Upgrading?

If you’re ready to upgrade or gift a pair, here’s what Apple’s current lineup looks like:

  • AirPods Pro 3 – $249 (Pre-order)

  • AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) – $169.99 ($79 off)

  • AirPods 4 – $89 ($40 off)

  • AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation – $119 ($60 off)

Final Thoughts

Apple’s new 8A358 firmware update continues the company’s mission to make AirPods not just earphones, but intelligent, health-aware, and language-smart companions.

From heart rate tracking to studio-level recording, real-time translation, and adaptive sound experiences, AirPods are quietly becoming one of Apple’s most advanced wearable devices.

While we’re still waiting for Apple’s official changelog, it’s safe to say this update makes your AirPods more useful than ever—no matter how you use them.

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