Mike Peterson
On Tuesday afternoon, Apple issued a new firmware update, with a build number of 2D15, for its AirPods Pro wireless Bluetooth headphones.
It isn't clear what changes or features are included in the firmware update, though it may contain bug fixes or changes to active noise cancellation. The previous firmware release, 2C54, is said to have reduced noise cancellation quality for bass.
The 2D15 release is the third update to the AirPods Pro firmware, after the aforementioned 2C54 update and the previous 2B588 update, which was released in November 2019.
Apple eventually pulled the 2C54 update shortly after its release — likely due to some type of unexpected behavior — meaning that some AirPod Pro users were running the pulled software, while others remained on 2B588. Users will be able to update to the latest firmware no matter which version they're running.
There isn't a way to force update AirPods Pro manually. The new firmware should be automatically installed as long as they remain connected to an iOS device, and in the charging case.
AirPods Pro users can check the firmware version their headphones are running by heading to Settings and tapping on General, About and AirPods Pro.
Christine McKee
Oliver Haslam
Andrew Orr
Amber Neely
William Gallagher
42 Comments
Looks like it could be good, but I think I’ll wait a few days before I upgrade. Just sayin’. . .
I had issues with the 2C54 update. Transparency Mic issues and sound quality issues when transparency and ANC were off, in the natural state. Transparency and ANC both produced very good bass response but as soon as I turn either off they immediately went to a very ‘tinny’ sound that was almost unbearable. The transparency Mic issues even caused the right earbud to become damaged to the point where certain sound frequencies would cause a horrible screeching feedback that hurt my ear. That was actually the 4th set of AirPod Pro’s I had to return to Apple due to quality control/sound quality issues. Seems odd as that was the one I used less while only using one as a Bluetooth earbud at work. I’m really hoping this update fixes these issues. Otherwise these are the most convenient earbuds I’ve found to work with all my Apple products, (I have a lot!!) I’ve tried so many others I can’t count and couldn’t begin to list them all. Thanks for the report.
Although there is no official way to force an update this worked for me for this update (did it in a few minutes
How to Force an AirPods Firmware Update
If you find that a new version of the AirPods firmware is available, but not yet installed, you can try forcing your AirPods to update.
To do so, put your AirPods into their Charging Case, start charging the case, and place it near your iPhone. Next, open the cover and then dismiss the on-screen battery display.