Like the iPhone, iPad or Mac, AirPods also receive different updates throughout the year. In fact, with iOS 18, AirPods will integrate new features that will improve, among other things, the quality of our voice. Without having to wait until September, Apple has released in recent days an update for AirPods which fixes a significant security flaw acknowledged by the company.
The AirPods security issue had and has already been fixed
As Apple details in its release notes, a large number of AirPods and Beats had a security hole when connecting Bluetooth. Specifically, when the earbuds were checking for a connection request, an attacker within Bluetooth range could impersonate the AirPods or Beats and gain access to the device. Fortunately, the update that was sent to a large number of AirPods and Beats addresses this issue.
How to Update AirPods and Find Out What Version They Are on
AirPods are update automatically when they have sufficient battery level and have been connected to the iPhone for a long time. However, it is possible to speed up the update process with a specific method. Below, we detail the AirPods models and their current version in a table so that you can identify them.
Current Firmware Version |
|
---|---|
AirPods Pro 2nd Generation |
6F8 |
AIRPODS PRO 1st GENERATION |
6A326 |
AirPods 3 |
6A326 |
AIRPODS 2 |
6A326 |
AIRPODS 1 |
6.8.8 |
AirPods max |
6A326 |
Powerbeats Pro |
6F8 |
Beats Fit Pro Headphones |
6F8 |
To find out what firmware version your AirPods are on, you’ll need to put them in your ears. Then, on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, go to Bluetooth settings and tap the “i” next to the name of your AirPods. In Settings, you will find the firmware version of your AirPods.
Apple is working on a new generation of AirPods with infrared cameras
According to a latest report from rumor monger Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will begin mass production of new AirPods with camera modules in 2026. These new AirPods will have an infrared camera similar to the one used for Face ID unlocking. It is unclear whether this camera will be to position the AirPods in the room and get even more personalized spatial sound.
The analyst points out that these AirPods will be integrated with Apple Vision Pro to improve the ecosystem. For example, when we watch a video on the Apple Vision and we use these new AirPods, the sound source will be in that direction. Another use of the infrared camera of the new AirPods will allow make gestures in the air to be able to interact with them in a much more natural way.
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