How to Check and Update AirPods Firmware - MacRumors
Skip to Content

How to Check and Update AirPods Firmware

by

Apple occasionally releases firmware updates for its AirPods and AirPods Pro wireless earphones that can include performance improvements, feature tweaks, and bug fixes.

If you're having a particular issue with your AirPods or AirPods Pro, or if you just want to make sure they're up to date with the latest software, then follow the steps below.

airpods pro 2 gradient

How to Update Your AirPods or AirPods Pro

  1. Insert your AirPods in their case if they aren't already.
  2. Connect the AirPods charging case to a power source using the included Lightning to USB-C/USB-C to USB-C cable, or alternatively if you have a Wireless Charging Case or AirPods Pro, place it on a Qi-compatible wireless charging mat.
  3. Move the iPhone or iPad that the AirPods have been paired with near to the charging case, and make sure the iOS device has an internet connection.

And that's all there is to it. After a short while, any available software updates should be automatically downloaded and installed. If you're having trouble updating your AirPods, make sure the charging case is fully charged. You can also try resetting the AirPods.

Check Your AirPods' Firmware Version

To check the version of the firmware that you have installed to make sure it's up to date, follow these steps:

  1. With your AirPods connected, launch the Settings app on your iOS device.
  2. Tap the name of your AirPods below your Apple Account banner.
  3. Scroll down to the "About" section and tap Version.
  4. Check the numbers shown beside Version and Case.

settings

Firmware updates for the AirPods don't come out very often, so don't be surprised if the version stays the same for a while.

Popular Stories

Dynamic Island iPhone 18 Pro Feature

12 Reasons to Wait for the iPhone 18 Pro

Thursday June 18, 2026 2:17 am PDT by
We're only three months out from the launch of Apple's premium next-generation smartphone lineup, and while we're not expecting a sea change in terms of functionality, there are still several enhancements rumored to be coming to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. One thing worth noting is that Apple is reportedly planning a major change to its iPhone release cycle this year, adopting a ...
Rivian Explains Why CarPlay Debate Will Become Completely Obsolete Feature

iOS 27 Adds Major New Feature to CarPlay

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:10 am PDT by
Last year, Apple revealed that it was planning to allow CarPlay users to watch video via AirPlay in their vehicles while they are not driving, and the company finally provided more specific details about this functionality at WWDC 2026. In a WWDC 2026 video aimed at developers, Apple said the CarPlay video feature is available in new vehicles that support it. When playing a video in an...
Apple Watch Ultra Orange Alpine Loop Action button 220907 big

Apple Explains Why watchOS 27 Drops Support for So Many Models

Friday June 19, 2026 6:07 am PDT by
Apple today detailed why five Apple Watch models will miss out on watchOS 27 and the new Siri AI features that come with it. The Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, SE 2, and the original Apple Watch Ultra will not receive watchOS 27, and will only get basic security updates going forward. With the update, Apple is effectively dropping three years' worth of device support in a single software...