Complex hardware-level programming is used in the firmware of the AirPods to ensure that each internal component operates as intended. It can also be upgraded. Therefore, Apple updates the firmware, and these updates frequently include bug repairs, speed improvements, and (to a lesser extent) feature additions.
Your AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max will automatically update through your iPhone without your knowledge. But if that doesn’t work, you could want to force-update the firmware manually and take matters into your own hands.
Why You Should Update the Firmware on Your AirPods
Within a few days of a new firmware release, your AirPods should typically update automatically. Here are a few explanations for why you ought to actively search for and update the firmware, though.
Having Problems with AirPods
The iPhone, as well as other Apple products like the iPad and Mac, are completely compatible with AirPods. However, if your wireless earbuds or headphones start acting strangely (for example, frequently disconnecting or having microphone issues), only one AirPod working, etc.), a firmware upgrade might be all that’s required.
Naturally, that’s presuming you’ve already worked through any necessary repairs linked to the problem.
Features on AirPods are Missing
Firmware updates for AirPods can introduce new features. For instance, the AirPods Pro’s Spatial Audio feature (which provides surround sound and 3D audio) is only compatible with firmware versions 3A283 and newer.
Therefore, if you notice that a certain feature is missing from the AirPods’ Bluetooth settings on your iPhone, you’re probably using an outdated firmware version.
How to Verify the Firmware Version of the AirPods
Before attempting to upgrade the firmware on your AirPods, check the current version. The upgrade might have also taken place automatically. You may determine the current software version for the AirPods (1st and 2nd generations), AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max by using the instructions below.
1. Join your iPhone with the AirPods.
2. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone.
3. Select About > General.
4. Locate [Your NameAirPods ]’s and tap them.
5. Record the firmware version’s build number next to it.
The most recent firmware version for your AirPods is not listed in any official documentation provided by Apple. However, a quick Google search for “latest firmware version for [AirPods model]” should enable you to easily determine that.
The steps in the following section should assist you in updating the firmware on your AirPods if it looks to be out of the current.
How to Update the Firmware for the AirPods
On your iPhone, you won’t find a button or an option to start an over-the-air firmware upgrade for your AirPods. You can, however, configure your AirPods and iPhone in a way that will start the upgrade.
The simple steps shown here work almost often, and they don’t require you to do anything complicated. They apply to the first and second versions of AirPods, as well as AirPods Pro and AirPods Max.
1. Join a Wi-Fi network using your iPhone.
2. Make sure Low Power Mode and Low Data Mode on the iOS smartphone are not active.
3. Place the Charging Case, Wireless Charging Case, or Smart Case over your AirPods. After that, attach the AirPods to a power source and let them charge for at least half an hour. The charge level can be viewed using your iPhone’s Batteries widget.
4. Put your AirPods and iPhone side by side and give them both at least 30 minutes to charge. In the interim, the firmware ought to be updated.
5. Verify that the update has been applied by visiting Settings > General > About > [Your Name] AirPods and checking Firmware Version once more.
However, leaving the iPhone and the AirPods close to one another for a long period of time (for example, overnight) can help if the firmware version appears to be the same as before. Connecting your iPhone to its charger is also recommended.
Note: Android phones can also use AirPods. A phone running Android won’t be able to upgrade the firmware for AirPods because Apple needs iOS as a bridge. Ask someone with an iPhone to upgrade the AirPods for you if you don’t want to continue using outdated firmware.
Can’t update the firmware for the AirPods? Delete and Start Over
Try resetting and reconnecting your AirPods to your iPhone if you can’t get the firmware to update on them. For the first and second generations of AirPods, as well as AirPods Pro, the process is the same; however, for AirPods Max, it differs slightly. After completing that, repeat the directions from the previous part once more.
Reset your AirPods Pro and 1st and 2nd Gen AirPods.
1. Insert your AirPods into the Wireless Charging Case or Charging Case.
2. Close the lid, let it a few moments to pause, then open it again.
3. Hold down the Setup button while waiting for the case’s status indicator to begin flashing amber.
4. Shut the lid and then open it once again.
5. Tap Connect to re-connect your iPhone’s AirPods.
AirPods Max reset
1. Insert the Smart Case into which your AirPods Max is.
2. Hold down both the Noise Control and Digital Crown buttons simultaneously until the status indicator begins to flicker amber.
3. Remove the Smart Case from your AirPods Max and tap Connect on your iPhone.
Update Your AirPods regularly
You don’t need to make a special effort to start a firmware update unless your AirPods continually give you problems or have functions that are missing. Instead, just carry on using them as normal, and they should update on their own.
Check out these now that you’ve upgraded the firmware (or realized you don’t need to) 19 tips to improve the AirPods experience.