Just like the latest iPhones, Apple's excellent wireless earbuds, including the AirPods Pro 2, receive software updates sporadically. While these updates typically don't include any noticeable changes, they sometimes introduce some major, exciting features. This makes certain tech enthusiasts wonder how they can manually update their AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max. Here's what you need to know.
Updating AirPods to the latest firmware
Sadly, unlike iOS and macOS, there's no button or setting to force-update the AirPods. Apple automatically downloads and installs these software updates in the background. The company states that for this to work, the AirPods should be connected to a power source and in Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. This means that if you're using Apple's earbuds with an Android phone, there's simply no way to update them yourself. Instead, you can book an Apple Store appointment and head there to get them updated by an employee.
Apple posts the change logs of AirPods firmware updates on its website. To confirm that you're running the latest version available, you can follow the steps below:
- Launch the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Click on the Bluetooth section.
- Tap the (i) button next to the paired AirPods' name.
- You will find the build number of the firmware they're running at the bottom of the list. Visit the linked Apple website above to check if it's the latest or not. If it's not, connect your AirPods to a charger, enable Bluetooth on your iDevice, and leave the two products within proximity.
It's a shame that Apple doesn't offer a more intuitive procedure to update the AirPods firmware. While probably most users couldn't care less about these updates, many enthusiasts want to try the latest available as soon as possible. Just connecting the AirPods to a charger and leaving them next to an Apple device doesn't always install the new software instantly. And it's worth noting that sometimes these updates pack major changes, like automatic device switching support. They're not necessarily just mundane bug fixes and security improvements.
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Apple AirPods 3
The AirPods 3 have a similar design to the AirPods Pro but do not have silicone tips. If you do not like the in-ear design of the AirPods Pro, you can get the AirPods 3.
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Apple AirPods Pro 2
Despite their compact build, the AirPods Pro 2 pack in plenty of features, including active noise cancelation (ANC), Dolby Atmos content, and wireless charging.
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Apple AirPods Max
Just like the AirPods Pro, the AirPods Max come with ANC and Dolby Atmos support. However, the Max variant offers more audio immersion, thanks to its larger size and over-ear cups.
