While the majority of software updates for Apple products garner plenty of attention, that’s typically not the case for minor firmware updates for Apple-branded accessories. Even when they are the massively popular AirPods lineup. Still, Apple’s back with another firmware update for its popular truly wireless headphones lineup.
Update (10/05/2021): This firmware version update adds a couple of different things. For AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, they can now be located via the Find My network, via more direct integration. And next, for AirPods Pro, as expected, Conversation Boost is part of the features list now.
The original article continues below.
As first reported today by MacRumors, Apple has issued a firmware update for the second-generation AirPods, the AirPods Pro, and the over-ear AirPods Max headphones. This actually brings all three truly wireless headphones under the same firmware version of A4400, rather than different version numbers.
Up to this point, the second-gen AirPods and AirPods Pro were running firmware version 3E751 (which was released in April of this year), and the AirPods Max were running firmware version number 3E756. The original report also notes that Apple has also issued firmware version updates for the Powerbeats Pro, the Powerbeats 4, and the Beats Solo Pro headphones as well.
We know that Apple has been working towards adding Conversation Boost to the AirPods Pro lineup. And it’s likely that this firmware version brings that feature to the wireless headphones. However, Apple doesn’t make it a point to list out the new features/additions in firmware updates. So we’ll just have to wait and see if that pans out. Apple did add the feature in a recent beta for the AirPods Pro firmware.
As far as upgrading the firmware version of the AirPods, AirPods Pro, and/or AirPods Max is concerned, there’s no specific way to do this. The truly wireless headphones will handle the process automatically when they are connected to the iPhone, and the new firmware is available. However, if you want to try and force the update you can put the AirPods/Pro in the charging case, connect the case to a charging source (wireless or wired), and then pair the truly wireless headphones to your iPhone or iPad. That should kickstart the firmware update process.
You can check your AirPods/Pro firmware version at any time, though. Simply connect your truly wireless headphones, then open Settings –> Bluetooth –> “i” next to your AirPods and then read the number next to “Version”.
Resource: How to find your AirPods firmware version
The firmware update is free and it’s rolling out now.