AirPods Pro 2 gets day one firmware update, here’s how to install it
After watchOS 9.0.1 for the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple has released a new firmware update for AirPods Pro 2. Both devices will be available starting tomorrow, meaning users will need to install day-one updates once they get their hands on these products. Here’s what you need to know.
The new version of AirPods Pro 2 firmware is 5.0, Build 5A377. As of now, Apple hasn’t announced what’s changing with this firmware. However, for the Apple Watch Ultra, we know that the Cupertino company is fixing an audio issue with the microphones available on the device.
For the AirPods Pro 2, Apple is likely doing something similar. Interestingly, the company is also testing a firmware update for AirPods Max, which hasn’t been made available to users at this time. In this firmware, a developer was able to discover that Apple is providing a new audio codec to improve telephoning on premium headphones.
In addition, this beta firmware has led us to believe that Apple could prepare lossless support for AirPods Pro 2, since Bluetooth 5.2 would be required to support the new LC3 standard (this device offers Bluetooth 5.3). As previously reported:
While the LC3 codec improves audio calls, efficiency and stability of Bluetooth devices, the requirements to fully utilize this standard require Bluetooth 5.2.
(…) Additionally, 9to5Mac Hints have already been found on iOS 16 that it will support LC3 codec and low-energy audio support. For LE Audio support, it’s worth noting that a senior Apple engineer is heavily involved in this new standard.
(…) With the support of Bluetooth 5.2 and LC3, Apple will be able to eliminate the desynchronization of AirPods on the user’s ears and improve battery life thanks to the low energy standard, while focusing on efficiency and stability.
It’s not clear when Apple will benefit from this. For example, the new Apple TV 4K might support a 120Hz refresh rate, but Apple hasn’t implemented this feature yet.
How to install the new firmware of the AirPods Pro 2
As you probably know by now, Apple doesn’t make it easy to manually update your AirPods Pro 2 to new firmware versions either. Instead, the company said new firmware versions will be installed when the AirPods are connected to your iPhone via Bluetooth.
To check your AirPods firmware version:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone
- Navigate to the Bluetooth menu.
- Find your AirPods in the device list
- Tap the “i” next to it
- Look at the “Firmware Version” number
If you spot any changes in the AirPods firmware update rolled out today, let us know in the comments or on Twitter @9to5Mac.
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