Apple offers regular firmware updates for the AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max, but hasn’t offered specific steps on how to force a firmware update. Apple has now remedied that omission.
Apple has updated its AirPods firmware support page with more specific instructions. Previously, that page merely said about updating your AirPods firmware:
Firmware updates are delivered automatically while your AirPods are charging and in Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac that’s connected to Wi-Fi . You can also use your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to check that your AirPods have the latest version.
Now, Apple has added step-by-step instructions on how to force an update:
- Make sure that your AirPods are in Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac that’s connected to Wi-Fi.
- Put your AirPods in their charging case and close the lid.
- Plug the charging cable into your charging case, then plug the other end of the cable into a USB charger or port.
- Keep the lid of the charging case closed, and wait at least 30 minutes for the firmware to update.
- Open the lid of the charging case to reconnect your AirPods to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Check the firmware version again.
If you still can’t update your firmware, reset your AirPods, then try to update your firmware again.
