Apple on Wednesday was finally able to release new 7E101 firmware for the AirPods Max with USB-C, after addressing an issue that made a previous firmware release unable to be downloaded.
Apple on Tuesday released new firmware for the AirPods Max, which carried a version number of 7E99, which enabled lossless audio and and ultra-low latency audio support. However, AirPods Max users were unable to download the firmware.
The new 7E101 firmware should now be available to all Apple users who have AirPods Max with USB-C, and the update brings lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio to the headphones.
When paired with a device running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS Sequoia 15.4., the new firmware brings lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio to the USB-C version of the AirPods Max headphones. The USB-C AirPods Max support 24-bit 48 kHz lossless audio. Apple says lossless audio and Personalized Spatial Audio offer a “more sonically accurate, uncompressed, and immersive experience.”
The lossless audio and ultra-low latency features are only available for the USB-C AirPods Max, as lossless quality requires a USB-C connection to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
While Apple doesn’t offer a way to manually upgrade AirPods firmware, but it is generally installed over-the-air when the AirPods are in a charging case and connected via Bluetooth to an iOS device or Mac.
If your AirPods Max are connected them to a power source, and are paired to an iPhone or iPad, they should update after a short period of time.
How to Check Your AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4 Firmware
Here’s how to check the firmware version of your AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4 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.”
