Update May 24, 2017: Apple has released firmware version 3.7.2 for the AirPods. It's unknown at this time exactly what comes with the update, but it's likely smaller fixes and improvements.

Back in February, Apple quietly rolled out a firmware update for AirPods, the company's wireless earbuds. Early adopters scrambled to the internet, as they do, looking for ways to manually update their firmware from version 3.3.1 to version 3.5.1 only to come away disappointed. It seems Apple hasn't provided a way to manually update the firmware on AirPods, opting instead for an automatic update process.

All that said, Apple won't just install the firmware update willy-nilly (if your AirPods died mid-update it could cause all sorts of problems); you'll need to make sure of the following:

  • Your AirPods must be in the charging case.
  • The charging case must be plugged in and charging.
  • An iOS device that's been connected to your AirPods must be nearby.

Once all of those conditions are met, the firmware update should automatically begin at some point (yeah, it's that vague).

Now, while you can't trigger a firmware update with a button press or tap, you can check what firmware version your AirPods are running and view some other interesting information about the wireless earbuds. Here's how!

How to check your AirPods' firmware version

  1. Make sure your AirPods are connected to your iOS device (open the charging case or put your AirPods in your ears).
  2. Launch the Settings app on your iOS device.
  3. Tap General.

  4. Tap About.

  5. Scroll down and tap AirPods.

  6. Check the number next to Firmware Version to see what firmware version your AirPods are running.

If your firmware version says something other than 3.5.1, your AirPods need an update! Put 'em in their case, plug it in, place your phone nearby, and keep your fingers crossed for that automatic update!

Questions?

If you've got questions let us know in the comments below!