Apple has quietly pushed out a series of firmware updates across its AirPods lineup — a move that, while subtle, introduces meaningful changes for users looking to get the most out of their earbuds and headphones. From lossless audio support to the groundwork for future real-time translation, here’s a breakdown of everything that’s new, what it means for you, and how to make sure your AirPods are up to date.
Latest Firmware Versions (as of May 2025)
Apple’s latest firmware updates target nearly every model in the AirPods family. Here’s what’s changed:
AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
New Firmware: 7E93
The flagship earbuds for Apple have been bumped from version 7B21 to 7E93. This firmware is available for both USB-C and Lightning models and is believed to include under-the-hood improvements such as better stability, refined noise cancellation algorithms, and optimizations for spatial audio responsiveness — particularly useful for users taking advantage of Dolby Atmos content in Apple Music.
AirPods 4 (With & Without Active Noise Cancellation)
New Firmware: 7E93
These newer-generation base models also received the 7E93 update, replacing firmware 7B20. While not as feature-rich as the Pro line, this update reportedly improves connectivity stability, microphone calibration for voice calls, and compatibility with the latest iOS features, including Adaptive Audio.
AirPods Max (USB-C)
New Firmware: 7E101
This is the biggest leap in functionality. The new firmware enables lossless audio support and ultra-low latency — but there’s a catch: it requires pairing with devices running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS Sequoia 15.4 or later. This change turns the USB-C version of AirPods Max into a serious contender for high-end audio use, especially when used with Apple’s upcoming Music Classical Lossless tier.
AirPods Max (Lightning), AirPods Pro (1st Gen), AirPods 2 & 3
New Firmware: 6F21
These models, some of which are aging out of Apple’s active development cycle, still benefit from minor fixes. Version 6F21 includes performance improvements, Bluetooth handshake refinements, and better compatibility with recent iOS releases. While no new features were added, the update ensures stability and longevity for these older models.
Security Improvements You Shouldn’t Ignore
In 2024, Apple patched a significant security flaw affecting AirPods — CVE-2024-27867, which could allow bad actors within Bluetooth range to spoof trusted devices. Apple rolled out firmware 6A326 and 6F8 to mitigate this, improving authentication safeguards. The current round of firmware continues to reinforce those protections, emphasizing Apple’s ongoing focus on device security, even for accessories.
What’s Coming: Real-Time Translation on AirPods?
Looking ahead, Apple is reportedly preparing to introduce real-time voice translation capabilities for AirPods. Slated for release alongside iOS 19 later this year, this feature will allow users to engage in live multilingual conversations directly through their AirPods, without needing to pull out their phone. It’s Apple’s answer to on-the-go communication challenges and could position AirPods as more than just audio accessories — but as true wearable assistants.
How to Check and Update Your AirPods Firmware
Unlike iPhones and Macs, AirPods firmware updates cannot be manually triggered. They install automatically when certain conditions are met:
- Your AirPods must be connected to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that’s connected to Wi-Fi.
- Place your AirPods in the charging case and connect the case to power.
- Keep them near your Apple device, and leave them idle for about 30 minutes.
To check the firmware version of your AirPods:
- On iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the (ℹ️) icon next to your AirPods, and scroll down to find the firmware version.
- On Mac: Open System Settings > Bluetooth, click the (i) next to your AirPods, and view the firmware details.
Apple rarely publishes detailed release notes for AirPods updates, but savvy users and developers continue to report what’s new through testing and performance benchmarks. With new features like lossless audio now available and major innovations like translation on the horizon, these firmware updates are more important than ever for keeping your AirPods current and future-ready.
Apple Releases Firmware Update 6F21 for Older AirPods Models
Apple released a firmware update for several of its older AirPods models. The update, version 6F21, is now available for AirPods Pro (1st generation), AirPods 2, AirPods 3, and AirPods Max with Lightning connectivity. This firmware update replaces the previous version 6A326 and aims to improve performance and fix bugs for these older audio devices.
Users don’t need to manually install the update as AirPods firmware updates automatically when the devices are connected to an iOS device and placed in their charging case. While Apple doesn’t typically provide detailed release notes for AirPods firmware updates, these releases often enhance audio quality and improve device connectivity and battery performance.
The 6F21 update is particularly noteworthy because it focuses on extending support for older AirPods models, which differ significantly from the newer AirPods 4 and second-generation AirPods Pro. This shows Apple’s commitment to supporting its existing user base even as newer models hit the market.
Key Takeaways
- The 6F21 firmware update is available for several older AirPods models including first-gen AirPods Pro and AirPods Max.
- Updates install automatically when AirPods are connected to an iOS device and placed in their charging case.
- Users can check their current firmware version in the Settings app under the AirPods information section.
Overview of Firmware Update 6F21
Apple’s latest firmware update 6F21 brings several improvements to older AirPods models. This update replaces the previous 6A326 firmware and focuses on enhancing performance and fixing bugs for specific AirPods generations.
Compatibility and Supported Models
The firmware update 6F21 is specifically designed for older AirPods models rather than the newest generations. Compatible devices include:
Notably, the update does not apply to the new AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, or the USB-C version of AirPods Max. The original first-generation AirPods are also excluded as Apple stopped providing firmware updates for them after they were discontinued.
Update Features and Enhancements
While Apple typically doesn’t provide detailed release notes for AirPods firmware updates, version 6F21 primarily focuses on bug fixes and improvements. The update likely addresses Bluetooth connectivity issues and general performance enhancements.
For AirPods Pro users, the update may improve Active Noise Cancellation effectiveness and audio quality. Battery life optimization is another potential benefit, especially for older models that may have experienced degradation over time.
The firmware installs automatically when the AirPods are connected to an iOS device. Users don’t need to manually trigger the update process. The installation happens over-the-air when the AirPods are in their charging case and connected to an iPhone or iPad with internet access.
Installation and Technical Details
Firmware update 6F21 rolls out automatically to compatible AirPods models including AirPods Pro (1st generation), AirPods 3, AirPods 2, and AirPods Max. This update replaces the previous version 6A326 and focuses on bug fixes and performance improvements.
Updating Your AirPods
AirPods firmware updates install automatically when the devices are connected to an iOS device. Users don’t need to manually trigger the update process. The installation happens in the background.
To check if your AirPods have updated to firmware version 6F21:
- Connect your AirPods to your iPhone or iPad
- Go to Settings
- Select Bluetooth
- Find your AirPods in the list
- Tap the “i” icon next to them
- Look for “Firmware Version” to confirm it shows 6F21
If your AirPods haven’t updated yet, place them in their charging case with the case lid open. Make sure your iPhone or iPad is nearby with Bluetooth turned on. Wait about 30 minutes for the update to complete.
Understanding Firmware Updates
Firmware updates for AirPods typically address performance issues, bug fixes, and sometimes add new features. The 6F21 update primarily focuses on stability improvements for older AirPods models.
Compatible devices for this update include:
- AirPods Pro (1st generation)
- AirPods 3
- AirPods 2
- AirPods Max (Lightning version)
The update does not apply to newer AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4 models. Apple typically doesn’t publish detailed release notes for AirPods firmware updates, making it difficult to know exactly what changes were made.
If your update fails to install, you can try resetting your AirPods. For AirPods Max, press and hold the noise control button and Digital Crown for 15 seconds until the LED flashes amber, then white.
