How to update your AirPods or AirPods Pro firmware

Firmware updates are an important part of using any smart device, including the Apple AirPods. Whether there’s a bug that needs fixing or new feature on the way, you’ll need a firmware update to make your AirPods the best AirPods they can be. Updating the firmware is dead simple, so read on to see how to do it.

Editor’s note: This article was updated on November 21, 2024, to include information about the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation and answer frequently questions. 

How can you check your AirPods or AirPods Pro firmware?

Checking your Apple AirPods firmware is pretty straightforward, as long as you have an iPhone or iPad. Whether you’ve got the fancy, expensive Apple AirPods Max, the comparatively humdrum Apple AirPods 4, or anything else bearing the AirPods moniker, it all works the same.

1. Open the iOS settings app.
2. Navigate to the Bluetooth page.
3. Tap the “i” button next to the name of your AirPods device.
4. Scroll until you see the firmware version.

If you’re using your AirPods with a macOS device and you want to check its firmware, the process is different, but no less simple.

1. Ensure AirPods are paired with your computer.
2. Open Bluetooth Settings on your Mac.
3. Click the “i” next to your AirPods. You will see the firmware version listed here.

How do you update your AirPods firmware?

Updating your AirPods firmware is even simpler than checking it. It’s an automatic process, so you shouldn’t actually need to do anything—once a firmware update is available, it will download and install when paired to an iOS device. If you’re paired to your iPhone and no update seems to be happening, put your AirPods earbuds back in their charging case, connect it to a power source, and re-pair the device to force an update. As long as your iOS device software is up to date, it shouldn’t have any issue pulling down your AirPods firmware update.

Unfortunately, this means firmware updates aren’t available to you if you’re not using iOS, iPadOS, or macOS. Android and Windows are out of the question, so you may be better suited finding an AirPod alternative if you use these kinds of devices. However, if you’re in Apple’s ecosystem, rest assured—you don’t need to go through any special process for firmware updates.

Frequently asked questions