It's time to update the firmware on your Apple devices

Apple Device Firmware Update Guide: Make sure your AirPods, AirTags, and more devices are always up to date

Your devices like AirPods or AirTags also run software, which you may never have thought of. This code is responsible for communicating with other devices and ensuring that all components on the device are functioning properly.

This software is called firmware, and manufacturers such as Apple install it directly in the factory to provide the basic functions of the hardware. But unlike iOS or macOS, you won't see this program on the screen, nor will you interact with it directly.

Firstware is not updated as frequently as applications and operating systems, but it is not unheard of. These new versions are critical to the proper functioning of your device, so you need to make sure they are updated in time.

Why should I update the firmware?

Some devices never receive firmware updates, which means their software out of the box serves them perfectly throughout their life cycle. But if the manufacturer releases new firmware for your device, be sure to make sure you pay attention and install it.

For example, these updates can patch new security vulnerabilities and protect your device from unknown threats when it was first released. They can also fix bugs and make hardware more stable.

[Related: Apple AirPods Pro 2 on Amazon hits a low early Black Friday]

Another reason to upgrade the device firmware is to improve its compatibility with updated products on the market. For example, a simple update can ensure that your old headphones work with your new smartphone. Sometimes, they may add new features, but this doesn't happen often - certainly not as frequent as the operating system is updated.

Overall, firmware updates make your hardware more reliable, safer, and more compatible with all other devices. If you ignore these updates, you may start to notice errors and crashes.

How to update the firmware of AirPods?

The firmware update process is the same regardless of what model of AirPods or AirPods Pro you have. When your AirPods are charging and connected to Apple's devices, such as your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, Apple's operating system will automatically apply these new versions in the background. You may not need to do anything manually.

It is still worth checking regularly if you are running the latest firmware, especially if you know there is a new version available, or if you have problems with AirPods. To check for updates, go to Settings on your iPhone, click General, About this unit, and then click AirPods. To force updates, make sure your AirPods are nearby and place them in the charging case to charge.

How to update AirTags' firmware?

It has received several firmware updates since AirTags was released, including improvements to anti-tracking measures built into devices. Like AirPods, the update process should be done in the background. To make sure it is in progress, place your AirTag within Bluetooth range of your phone (up to 33 feet).

If you see an alert about AirTag firmware updates and you want to double check that your tracking device has successfully installed it, open the Find app on your iPhone. Click Item, select the AirTag in the list, and then click the AirTag name to view the serial number and current firmware version.

How to update the firmware of MagSafe charger?

You may never realize that the chargers also run firmware, which means they will also receive updates. If you purchased the official MagSafe charger from Apple, you should know that it has received at least one firmware update since its release, and there are two ways to make sure these new versions are indeed running on your device.

The first method is to connect the MagSafe charger to the power supply and charge your iPhone as usual. The second method is to plug the charger into a USB port on a Mac connected to Wi-Fi. In either case, you won't see a notification, but the update should be installed in minutes. You can check the firmware version on your iPhone by connecting the charger and clicking General and About this unit from Settings. Then, select the charger.

HomePod Mini

In terms of firmware, the HomePod Mini is a bit exception, as Apple calls its onboard code software, although it doesn't have a user-oriented interface like iOS or macOS. Your speakers should automatically receive updates via Wi-Fi, but you can also manually check for updates via connected devices.

[Related: Best Smart Speakers of 2022]

On iPhone, open the Home app, click the three dots in the upper right corner, and select Home Settings and Software Updates. If your HomePod Mini has a new version of the software available, you will be able to see and install it here. You can even turn off automatic updates if you prefer, although we do not recommend this.

Update firmware for other Apple devices

For iPhones, iPads, Mac computers, and other Apple devices with displays and software you can interact with, the new operating system version includes firmware updates. As long as you are using the latest iOS, iPadOS, macOS and watchOS, your firmware will be up to date.

You will receive very obvious tips about these operating system updates, so it's hard to ignore them, but you can also check them manually. For example, on macOS, open the Apple menu and select System Settings, General, and Software Update.

The above is the detailed content of It's time to update the firmware on your Apple devices. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!