Apple’s firmware update system for AirPods is intentionally designed to be automatic and invisible. Unlike software updates on phones or laptops, you cannot manually trigger firmware installation. Instead, the update process relies on a few conditions being met.
First, your AirPods must be connected to a device that can communicate with Apple’s update servers. This includes devices like a Mac or iPad, not just an iPhone. Second, the AirPods must be charging inside their case. Third, the case must be close to the connected device with Bluetooth enabled. Finally, the device itself must have an active internet connection.
When all these conditions are satisfied, Apple silently pushes the firmware update to your AirPods. The process usually happens when you are not actively using them, which is why many users never notice it occurring.
If you primarily use AirPods with Android, Windows PCs, or other non-Apple systems, the process becomes less straightforward because those platforms do not support firmware delivery. In such cases, you will need temporary access to an Apple device like a Mac or iPad.
This guide breaks down exactly how it works and walks you through the process in a clear, practical way.
How to Update Your AirPods’ Firmware Without an iPhone
You can update your AirPods’ firmware without an iPhone by connecting them to an iPad, Mac, or another Apple device linked to the internet, then placing them in their charging case and keeping them near the connected device. The update happens automatically in the background when the AirPods are idle, charged, and within Bluetooth range.
The following steps explain how to do this efficiently.
Step 1: Prepare Your AirPods and Charging Case
Before attempting any firmware update, ensure your AirPods and their case are in optimal condition. Start by placing both AirPods securely inside the charging case. Check that the case itself has sufficient battery power. Ideally, both the AirPods and the case should have at least 50 percent charge.
This matters because firmware updates require stable power. If the battery drops too low during the process, the update may fail or be delayed.
Also, close the lid properly and wait a few seconds. This resets the connection state and ensures your AirPods are ready to communicate with the host device.
Step 2: Connect AirPods to a Compatible Apple Device
Since you are not using an iPhone, the next best option is either a Mac or an iPad. Open the Bluetooth settings on the device and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
Now open the AirPods case lid and press and hold the pairing button on the back of the case until the status light starts blinking white. This puts your AirPods into pairing mode.
On your Mac or iPad, locate your AirPods in the list of available Bluetooth devices and connect to them. Once connected, confirm that audio playback works by playing a short sound or video.
This step is critical because firmware updates only occur when the AirPods are actively recognized by a compatible Apple device.
Step 3: Ensure Stable Internet Connectivity
Firmware updates are delivered over the internet through Apple’s servers. Therefore, your Mac or iPad must be connected to a stable WiFi network.
Avoid using unstable or slow connections. If the network drops intermittently, the update may not initiate. A consistent connection ensures that the firmware package can be downloaded and transferred without interruption.
You do not need to manually download anything. Just keeping the device online is sufficient.
Step 4: Place AirPods in the Case and Keep Them Nearby
After confirming the connection, place your AirPods back inside the charging case and close the lid. Then keep the case physically close to the Mac or iPad. Ideally, maintain a distance of less than one meter.
Proximity is important because the update is transferred via Bluetooth. If the AirPods move out of range, the process may pause or fail.
Leave the case undisturbed. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this can interrupt the update cycle.
Step 5: Wait for the Automatic Firmware Update
This is the part that requires patience. Apple does not provide a progress bar or notification for AirPods firmware updates. The process typically happens in the background within 15 to 30 minutes, although it can sometimes take longer.
During this time, keep the following conditions intact. The AirPods remain inside the charging case. The case stays near the connected device. The device maintains an internet connection. Bluetooth remains enabled.
It is best to leave everything untouched for at least 30 to 60 minutes to ensure the update completes successfully.
Step 6: Verify the Firmware Version
Once you believe the update has completed, you can verify the firmware version using your Mac or iPad.
On a Mac, go to System Settings, open Bluetooth, and find your AirPods in the device list. Click on them to view additional details, including the firmware version.
On an iPad, go to Settings, then Bluetooth, tap the information icon next to your AirPods, and check the firmware version.
Compare the version number with the latest firmware available online. If they match, your update was successful.
If not, repeat the process and allow more time.
What to Do If the Update Does Not Happen?
Sometimes the firmware does not update on the first attempt. This is normal because the process is not user-controlled.
If the update fails, try resetting your AirPods. To do this, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber and then white. This clears any connection issues.
Reconnect the AirPods to your Mac or iPad and repeat the update process from the beginning.
Also, ensure that your Apple device is running the latest version of its operating system, as outdated software may interfere with firmware delivery.
Faqs
Can I update AirPods firmware using an Android phone?
No, Android devices do not support AirPods firmware updates. While you can use AirPods for audio on Android, the firmware update system requires an Apple device such as a Mac or iPad.
How often do AirPods receive firmware updates?
Firmware updates are not released on a fixed schedule. Apple pushes updates periodically when improvements or fixes are needed. These updates are usually infrequent but important.
Is there a way to force a firmware update manually?
No, Apple does not provide a manual update option for AirPods. The process is entirely automatic and depends on the correct conditions being met.
Do I need to keep the AirPods case open during the update?
No, the case should remain closed. Keeping the lid closed ensures stable communication and charging, both of which are necessary for the update process.
What happens if the update is interrupted?
If the update is interrupted, it will typically resume later when conditions are favorable again. In rare cases, you may need to reset the AirPods and repeat the process.
Can I use a friend’s Apple device to update my AirPods?
Yes, you can temporarily connect your AirPods to any compatible Apple device to trigger the update. Once completed, you can reconnect them to your usual device.