AirPods and AirPods Pro updated with new firmware

Apple has released new firmware for its AirPods and AirPods Pro, with the updates starting to roll out to the audio accessories and install automatically, though it is unclear exactly what changes have been made to the software for the audio accessories.

The new firmware is build 2C54 and replaces the previously used firmware on both AirPods and the AirPods Pro. The update brings both models together under the same build number for the first time, instead of having separate builds for each.

This marks the second firmware release for the AirPods Pro. The first firmware update, build number 2B588, was released on November 14 and only applied to the AirPods Pro, not the AirPods.

Apple does not provide release notes for its accessory firmware updates, making it difficult to determine exactly what the firmware does. Given the radio silence about features, it is more likely that the software update introduced increased compatibility with other operating systems in the Apple ecosystem, or provided other performance improvements.

Owners of either model do not need to perform any actions with the AirPods to apply the update, as it will be automatically applied when they are connected to an iPhone or iPad. There is no update mechanism available for the firmware, but the version in use can be checked via the Settings app then tapping General, About, and AirPods Pro or AirPods.

The update process does require the AirPods to be kept within the supplied charging case for it to take place, and for the case to be on charge and within range of the host iOS device.