Apple regularly updates its AirPods lineup with new firmware, which installs automatically in the background. While this process was somewhat unclear in the past, the company now provides detailed instructions for manually initiating a firmware update.
Step-by-step guide for updating AirPods firmware
On its AirPods firmware support page, Apple outlines a step-by-step guide for performing the update.
Follow these six steps to update your AirPods or AirPods Pro:
Update your AirPods or AirPods Pro firmware
- Ensure your AirPods are within Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac that is connected to Wi-Fi.
- Place your AirPods in their charging case and close the lid.
- Connect the charging cable to your charging case, and plug the other end into a USB charger or port.
- Keep the charging case lid closed and wait at least 30 minutes for the firmware to update.
- Open the lid of the charging case to reconnect your AirPods to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Verify the firmware version again.
If you’re unable to update the firmware, Apple suggests resetting your AirPods and trying once more.
For AirPods Max users, there is a similar five-step process to follow:
Update your AirPods Max firmware
- Ensure your AirPods Max are within Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac connected to Wi-Fi.
- Connect the charging cable to the bottom-right ear cup, and then plug the other end into a USB charger or port.
- Wait for at least 30 minutes for the firmware update to complete.
- Reconnect your AirPods Max to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Check the firmware version again.
In the background, firmware updates still function as they always have, installing automatically in most situations. However, if you prefer to manually initiate an update, this is the way to do it.
Make sure you’re ready for the next AirPods firmware release!
How did you previously install AirPods firmware? Share your experiences in the comments.
