At the end of 2021, Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers gained access to a new diagnostic tool, “AirPods Firmware Updater,” that they can use to update their customers’ AirPods Pro to the latest firmware version if needed.
In an internal memo Apple has now announced that the tool can now update the firmware of the second-generation AirPods as well. Both the AirPods Pro and the second-generation AirPods are now listed as supported models, but not the third-generation AirPods or the AirPods Max. The tool allows technicians who have access to Apple Service Toolkit 2 to install the latest firmware on a customer's AirPods in certain cases, such as when the customer's left or right AirPod could not be updated or the customer is using a non-iOS companion device.
Update AirPods 2 Firmware
The firmware update tool is for internal Apple use only. Aside from visiting an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider, there is no direct way for customers to update the firmware on their AirPods. Generally, AirPods connected to an iPhone or iPad should automatically update to the latest firmware after a short period of time. (Photo by Eremin / Bigstockphoto)