Apple Stores Can Now Update Firmware on Second-Generation AirPods

In late 2021, Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers gained access to a new "AirPods Firmware Updater" diagnostic tool for updating a customer's AirPods Pro to the latest firmware version when necessary.

AirPods Firmware Feature
In an internal memo today, obtained by MacRumors, Apple announced that the tool is now capable of updating the firmware on second-generation AirPods as well. Both the AirPods Pro and second-generation AirPods are now listed as supported models, but not the third-generation AirPods or the AirPods Max.

The tool allows technicians with access to Apple Service Toolkit 2 to install the latest firmware on a customer's AirPods in certain scenarios, such as if the customer's left or right AirPod failed to update or the customer is using a non-iOS companion device.

The firmware updater tool is for Apple's internal use only. Beyond visiting an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, there is no direct way for customers to update the firmware on their AirPods. In general, AirPods connected to an iPhone or iPad should automatically update to the latest firmware after a short period, and it may help to keep the AirPods in their charging case and connected to a power source.

(Thanks, @StellaFudge!)

Related Roundup: AirPods 4
Buyer's Guide: AirPods (Buy Now)
Related Forum: AirPods

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Top Rated Comments

mystery hill Avatar
43 months ago
It’s ridiculous that they don’t let us force a firmware update ourselves.
Score: 19 Votes (Like | Disagree)
supergt Avatar
43 months ago
How about some release notes for said firmware updates? I'd like to know what changes are being forced on our devices.
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
metalsiren Avatar
43 months ago

It’s ridiculous that they don’t let us force a firmware update ourselves.
lol I was about to say the same thing.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
RyanXM Avatar
43 months ago
Hopefully this paves the way for a standalone app for consumers...or at least the functionality to be built into iOS, iPadOS, and/or macOS.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
boak Avatar
43 months ago
There should be a OS/Firmware Update app just like Find My
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
AirunJae Avatar
43 months ago
It's already been said, but they clearly need an option for the user to start the firmware update. Apple should also consider users of non-Apple devices as well, because that's absurd if Android users have to go to an Apple store for a simple update.
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)