How to Update AirPods Software

If you’re having AirPods issues or if you want access to the latest features, you’ll want to update your AirPods. This guide will show you how to keep AirPods, AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, AirPods Pro 2, or AirPods Max up-to-date with Apple’s latest software.

Apple periodically pushes new software to its AirPods lineup. The releases aren’t as frequent as iOS, iPadOS, and macOS updates, but they’re still important.

AirPods software updates typically include performance improvements and bug fixes though occasionally they’ll bring new features as well. That’s why it’s important to keep your AirPods updated with the latest firmware.

If you just bought a pair of AirPods and/or you’re unsure if you’re running the latest AirPods software, read on.

How to Update AirPods or AirPods Pro

Before you update your AirPods it might be a good idea to dig into feedback from users running the latest software. You can search sites like Apple’s forums and YouTube for information about features, bugs, and performance issues.

If a lot of the feedback is negative, you might want to hold off and wait for Apple to release a new update. The releases are fairly sporadic, but you can expect a few updates throughout the year.

If you want to proceed with the upgrade process, here’s what you need to do.

1. Put your AirPods or AirPods Pro inside their case
2. Make sure the case is connected to a power source. You can use the Lightning to USB cable or you can use wireless charging if you’ve got a pair of AirPods Pro and a compatible charger
3. Grab your iPhone or iPad and make sure it has an internet connection
4. Make sure your AirPods are paired with your iPhone or iPad and then bring the device close to the charging case

Now you just need to wait a bit. If a new update is available, it should automatically download and install. If you’re having issues with the installation, you can try resetting your AirPods.

How to Update AirPods Max

If you own a pair of AirPods Max, new firmware will download if your headphones are connected to Bluetooth via another device like an iPhone.

If you’re unsure if your AirPods are running Apple’s latest firmware, you can manually check. Here’s how to check your AirPods software version.

1. Grab your iPhone or iPad.
2. Open up the Settings app.
3. Tap General.
4. Tap About.
5. Find your AirPods on the list and tap.

On this screen you can see information about your AirPods including their current firmware version.

You can also check the current firmware using these steps:

• Open the Settings app on your Apple device.
• Go to Bluetooth.
• Find your AirPods on your list of devices.
• Tap the “i”.
• Check the Firmware Version.

Latest AirPod Updates

Here are the latest updates for AirPods, AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Max:

• AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C): 6F8
• AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (Lightning): 6F8
• AirPods Pro (1st generation): 6A326
• AirPods (3rd generation): 6A326
• AirPods (2nd generation): 6A326
• AirPods Max: 6A326
• AirPods (1st generation): 6.8.8

You can learn more about the contents of Apple’s AirPods updates over on its support website.

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