Apple today released new firmware for the second-generation AirPods Pro, which means the firmware will be ready when the new AirPods Pro hit shelves The 5A377 firmware replaces the 5A374 firmware the wireless earbuds ship with.
Apple doesn’t officially announce information on what’s included in AirPods firmware updates, so we’re not sure what changes the new firmware brings. If we find any notable fixes or improvements after the firmware updates are installed, we’ll share the details right here.
There isn’t any way to manually update the firmware of the earbuds, and the new software will be installed over the air while the AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max are connected via Bluetooth to an iOS device.
If you place the AirPods in their case, connect them to a power source, and then pair them to an iPhone or iPad, they should update after a short period of time.
Here’s how to check the firmware version of your AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max earbuds:
- Make sure your Airpods are connected to your iPhone or iPad.
- Launch the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap “General.”
- Tap “About.”
- Scroll down to “AirPods,” and tap that.
- Read the number next to “Firmware Version.”
The AirPods Pro are powered by the new H2 chip, for improved audio performance, including upgrades to Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode and more immersive Spatial Audio.
Touch control is now available for media playback and volume adjustments directly from the stem. Also included are longer battery life, a brand-new charging case, and an additional ear tip size for a better fit.
The new H2 chip provides an improved acoustic experience and cancels up to twice as much noise as the previous generation AirPods Pro. Thanks to a new low-distortion audio driver and custom amplifier, AirPods Pro now offers richer bass and crystal-clear sound across a wider range of frequencies. A new extra small ear tip is included for improved fit.
Also new is Personalized Spatial Audio. Using the TrueDepth camera on iPhone, users can create a personal profile for Spatial Audio that delivers a listening experience precisely tuned just for them. Users can enjoy Personalized Spatial Audio with music, movies, and TV shows — with dynamic head tracking — across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV.
Users can control media playback and turn up the volume without using another device. A light swipe up or down on the stem enables quick volume adjustments. Press the stem to change the music, answer phone calls, and more, or say “Hey Siri” to make requests hands-free.
AirPods Pro offers 1.5 hours of additional listening time over the first generation, for a total of up to six hours with Active Noise Cancellation. Using the case for four additional charges, users can enjoy up to 30 hours of total listening time with Active Noise Cancellation — a full six hours more than the previous generation.
Users can now charge AirPods Pro with an Apple Watch charger, in addition to a MagSafe charger, Qi-certified charging mat, or a Lightning cable.
AirPods Pro now includes a newly designed charging case that is sweat- and water-resistant, with a lanyard loop so it’s always within reach. Precision Finding allows users with a U1-enabled iPhone to locate their charging case with guided directions. The charging case also has a built-in speaker to deliver louder tones, making it easier to locate.
