Apple regularly refreshes its AirPods with new software updates, which usually happen quietly on their own. For a long time, how this worked was unclear, but now Apple shares simple steps to help you update your AirPods yourself if needed.
Simple Steps to Update Your AirPods or AirPods Pro
Apple provides clear guidance on its support page for updating AirPods. Here’s how to do it in six easy steps:
- Keep your AirPods close to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and make sure the device is on Wi-Fi.
- Place your AirPods in their case and shut the lid.
- Connect the charging cable to the case, then plug it into a USB charger or port.
- Leave the lid closed and wait at least 30 minutes for the update to finish.
- Open the case lid to link your AirPods back to your device.
- Check the software version to confirm the update.
If it doesn’t work, Apple suggests resetting your AirPods and trying again.
Updating AirPods Max Made Easy
For AirPods Max owners, the process is just as simple with these five steps:
- Ensure your AirPods Max are near your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, connected to Wi-Fi.
- Attach the charging cable to the bottom-right earpiece, then plug it into a USB charger or port.
- Wait at least 30 minutes for the update to complete.
- Reconnect your AirPods Max to your device.
- Check the software version to see if it updated.
What Happens Behind the Scenes?
Normally, these updates happen automatically without you noticing. But if you want to take control and do it yourself, these steps are the way to go. With this know-how, you’ll be all set when the next AirPods update rolls out!