Apple Releases New Firmware for AirPods 3

Apple today introduced a new firmware update for the third-generation AirPods. The new firmware is version 6A317, up from the 6A300 firmware introduced in September.

airpods 3 blue
Apple's AirPods firmware updates do not come with details on new features, so it is unclear what might be included in the software.

Apple also does not offer instructions on how to upgrade AirPods software, but firmware is generally installed over-the-air while the ‌‌AirPods‌‌ are connected to an iOS device. Putting the ‌‌‌‌‌AirPods‌‌‌‌‌ in the case, connecting the ‌‌‌‌‌AirPods‌‌‌‌‌ to a power source, and then pairing the ‌‌‌‌‌AirPods‌‌‌‌‌ to an iOS device or Mac should force the update.

You can check your ‌‌‌AirPods‌‌ or ‌‌‌‌‌‌AirPods Pro‌‌‌‌‌‌‌ firmware by following these steps:

  • Connect your ‌‌‌‌‌‌AirPods Pro‌‌‌‌‌‌ to your iOS device.
  • Open the Settings app.
  • Tap General.
  • Tap About.
  • Tap ‌‌‌‌‌AirPods‌‌‌‌‌.
  • Look at the number next to "Firmware Version."

If we learn more about what's new in the AirPods firmware release, we'll update this article. Apple has also recently released 6A307 beta firmware for the AirPods Pro, AirPods 2, AirPods 3, and AirPods Max.

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

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Top Rated Comments

28 months ago
does it fix the damn thing falling out of the ear?
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
David1964 Avatar
28 months ago

does it fix the damn thing falling out of the ear?
That’s your ear’s fault ?
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
28 months ago
Safari seems snappier with this update
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
dannyyankou Avatar
28 months ago

Does it fix the problem where one doesn’t seat correctly and doesn’t charge overnight? Then the next night it’s the other one. Then it’s fine for a few days. I’ve replaced 3 pair and all have the same problem. I’ve never had this issue on the first generation AirPods. I actually just went back and purchased a first generation so I wouldn’t have the issue any longer, at least for the pair I use for traveling. The AirPods 3 I have a home for the bedroom and office still have this problem.
That's happened to me too with the AirPods Pro. I I think I found the culprit. Dirt can accumulate between the stem and the part that goes in your ear, and cleaning that crevice seems to help.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
geotbozo Avatar
28 months ago

I hope it fixes the issue where it pops up on the iphone with instructions/reminder on how to mute/unmute when on a call
^^^THIS!
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
28 months ago

does it fix the damn thing falling out of the ear?
Yup. When you place the earpiece in your ear, little prongs come out and grab your outer ear canal. It stays put until you forcefully remove it.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)