Apple has not yet disclosed the contents of this release on its AirPods Firmware page. It’s likely this is just “bug fixes and performance improvements,” as there aren’t any new iOS or macOS features that should require new firmware.
You can’t update your AirPods firmware manually. But there are steps you can take to check your firmware version and make sure that Apple updates your AirPods sooner rather than later.
How to update AirPods on iPhone, iPad, or Mac
Make sure that your AirPods are in Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Make sure that device is connected to Wi-Fi.
- Put your AirPods in their charging case and close the lid.
- Plug in the charging case (plug the USB cable into a power adapter and the charging case).
- Keep the lid of the charging case closed.
- Wait at least 30 minutes.
- Open the lid of the charging case to reconnect your AirPods to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Check the firmware version again.
How to check the firmware version of your AirPods
On iPhone or iPad: With your AirPods nearby and the case open, open Settings on your iPhone or iPad. You’ll see your AirPods listed at the top of Settings. Tap that, and scroll down to the bottom of your AirPods settings to see the Version.
On Mac: Open System Settings. Select Bluetooth, then click the (i) next to your connected AirPods. The Version will be listed there, along with other information.
