How to update AirPods firmware, to troubleshoot or add new features
Ensure your AirPods are up to date for the best experience
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Knowing how to update AirPods firmware will help you maximize their potential for the ultimate listening experience. Although the process is usually entirely automatic, you can follow simple steps to update the firmware manually if you find it’s dated.
Thebest AirPodsoffer incredible convenience and a seamless listening experience, with firmware updates fixing bugs and improving hardware functionality to enhance performance. Sometimes, if you’ve been having a technical issue with them, updating the firmware can help solve things, if an update is available.
Unlike other devices, AirPods updates are slightly indirect because they rely on their connection to your iPhone, iPad, or macOS to make the chance. Here, we’ll guide you through the process, ensuring your AirPods remain at peak performance.
Tools and requirements
Steps for how to update AirPods firmware
Step by step guide to update AirPods firmware
Before following the steps below, pair your AirPods with yourAppledevice and upgrade your devices to the latest OS.
Note that you can’t update the firmware without access to an Apple device, like an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
1. Find your AirPods’ firmware version
LaunchSettingson your iPhone or iPad andtap Bluetooth. On your Mac,clicktheApple iconat the top left corner,select System Settings, and thenclick Bluetooth.
UnderMy Devices,tapthei iconbeside your AirPods to find theVersion.
2. Check Apple’s latest firmware versions
Next,head toApple’s firmware updatespage to check if your AirPods are up to date.
3. Perform a manual update
If your AirPods aren’t updated,put themin theircharging caseandclosethelid.Connectthecaseto acharging cableorwireless charging padandstart charging it. Since AirPods Max don’t have a case, connect them directly with a charging cable.
Then,placeyouriPhone,iPad, orMac(withBluetoothandWi-Fi enabled)close totheAirPods casefor10 minutes.
4. Verify the firmware version
Head to Settings(iPhone and iPad) orSystem Settings(Mac) >Bluetooth>pressthei iconbeside your AirPods and verify if the firmware version is updated.
If it hasn’t updated, tryre-pairingyour AirPods with your Apple device and repeating the steps given above.
Final thoughts
Updated AirPods will deliver optimal performance and stability to match thebest wireless earbudsof any kind. Although there’s no clear setting to update your AirPods’ firmware manually, you can ensure they’re updated by keeping them charged, paired, and close to your Wi-Fi-connected Apple device.
For more tips on making the most of your Apple gadgets, explore our guides onhow to screen record on an iPhone,how to set parental controls on iPad, andhow to clean a MacBook keyboard.
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Nikshep Myle is a freelance writer covering tech, health, and wellbeing. He has written for popular tech blogs like Tom’s Guide, GadgetReview, SlashGear, and Creative Bloq, and has extensively reviewed consumer gadgets. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him meditating, gaming, discovering new music, and indulging in adventurous and creative pursuits.
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