Apple regularly releases firmware updates to improve battery life, address software glitches, and introduce new device features. However, unlike Macs and iPhones, firmware updates for your AirPods typically don’t trigger notifications. Instead, these updates are automatically installed on your AirPods under certain situations.
However, there are instances when AirPods may not remain up to date. Fortunately, you can check and manually update your AirPods using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Here’s all you need to know.
- Recent firmware updates
- How to check AirPods or AirPods Pro firmware version on iPhone or iPad
- How to check AirPods or AirPods Pro firmware version on your Mac
- How to update AirPods /AirPods Pro/AirPods Max
Recent firmware updates
Apple rolled out two firmware updates in September 2023 – 6A300/6A301. These updates bring the following improvements:
- Conversation Awareness, Adaptive Audio, and Personalized Volume for AirPods Pro (2nd generation) Lightning and USB-C charging models
- Improvements to Automatic Switching for all AirPods
- press to unmute/mute during calls for AirPods (3rd generation), AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation)
In October, Apple released 6A303 for AirPods Pro (2nd generation), both Lightning and USB-C charging models, for bug fixes and other improvements.
Latest Firmware versions
If you want to get your hands on the newest AirPods features, it’s best to make sure you’ve updated them to the latest firmware. You can also check out these AirPods tips and tricks to get the most out of your AirPods.
The latest firmware version available for your AirPods depends on its model:
- AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C): 6A303
- AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (Lightning): 6A303
- AirPods Pro (1st generation): 6A300 AirPods (2nd and 3rd generation): 6A300
- AirPods Max: 6A300
- AirPods (1st generation): 6.8.8
How to check AirPods or AirPods Pro firmware version on iPhone or iPad
To check your AirPods firmware on your iPhone or iPad, be sure to update your iOS or iPad OS to the latest version. Then do the following:
- Go to Settings → Bluetooth.
- Select the info (i) button next to the AirPods.
- You can see the version of your AirPods under the About section.
If the version displayed here is the latest, you do not have to do anything. Enjoy! If outdated, your iPhone will automatically download and install the firmware on your AirPods. Follow the steps below to prepare and try forcing the update.
How to check AirPods or AirPods Pro firmware version on your Mac
First, make your Mac runs the latest macOS, then do the following.
- Go to Apple Menu → Press and hold the Option key to view System Information.
- Now, select System Information → Pick Bluetooth in the left pane.
- Now, look under your AirPods to find its firmware version.
Alternatively, if you’re using a Mac running macOS Ventura or later:
- Head to the Apple Menu → System Settings → Bluetooth.
- Then click the Info (i) button next to your AirPods.
How to update AirPods /AirPods Pro/AirPods Max
Apple automatically delivers firmware updates to your AirPods while plugged into a power source and within Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac connected to Wi-Fi.
While at it, it would also help if your device is connected to a power source. Be sure to turn off Low Power mode as well. On your iPhone, go to Settings → Battery → Toggle off Low Power Mode.
Wrapping up…
The good news is that Apple takes care of these firmware updates automatically, so you usually don’t have to fret about it. However, since these updates only roll out when your AirPods meet certain conditions, there’s a slight chance that yours might not be up-to-date. So, it’s a smart move to double-check, just to make sure everything is running smoothly.
Did trying out this little trick help you get your AirPods updated? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share it with us in the comments below.
Read more:
- AirPods Pro keeps disconnecting? 11 Ways to fix it!
- How to reset AirPods and AirPods Pro
- iPad Pro not charging? Here’s how to fix it
- Which AirPods do I have? 7 Ways to check your AirPods model
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