How to Update AirPods Pro 3 Firmware: Complete Guide to Automatic Updates

AirPods Pro 3 firmware updates happen automatically in the background, but understanding how they work helps you verify your earbuds are running the latest software. This guide shows you exactly how to check your firmware version and ensure your AirPods stay optimized.

What is AirPods Pro 3 Firmware Update?

AirPods Pro 3 firmware updates are automatic software improvements that enhance sound quality, fix bugs, and add new features to your earbuds. Unlike your iPhone or iPad, which require manual updates and restarts, AirPods update silently in the background whenever they’re connected to your Apple device. The firmware runs the core operating system of your earbuds, controlling everything from noise cancellation to spatial audio to battery management.

When Apple releases a firmware update, your AirPods Pro 3 download and install it automatically during regular use—you’ll never see a notification or need to restart anything. Current as of: iOS 18.x, macOS 14.7+ - January 2025

Why Updating Your AirPods Pro 3 Matters

• Improved Sound Quality: Updates often enhance audio processing, noise cancellation algorithms, and spatial audio tracking for better listening experiences
• Critical Security Fixes: Firmware updates patch vulnerabilities that could affect connectivity and privacy between your earbuds and device
• New Features: Apple regularly adds capabilities like improved voice recognition, better transparency mode, and enhanced battery optimization through firmware updates
• Bug Fixes and Stability: Updates resolve connectivity issues, charging problems, and audio glitches reported by users worldwide

Things to Consider

• Updates Require Active Connection: Your AirPods need to stay paired and nearby your Apple device for updates to complete—typically 15-30 minutes
• Battery Requirements: Your earbuds should ideally have at least 50% battery remaining to ensure updates complete without interruption
• Device Compatibility: Updates only work when your AirPods are paired with an Apple device running current software (iOS 18+, macOS 14.7+, or iPadOS 18+)

How to Check and Complete Your AirPods Pro 3 Update - Step by Step

On iPhone or iPad:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad

2. Tap Bluetooth

3. Find your AirPods Pro 3 in the “My Devices” section and tap the information icon (i) next to the device name

4. Look for the firmware version number at the bottom of the AirPods details screen (typically formatted as 7.x.x or similar)

5. Keep your AirPods in their case nearby your device for 30 minutes to allow any pending updates to complete automatically

6. After 30 minutes, return to the same details screen to verify the firmware version number has changed to a higher number

On Mac:

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Settings

2. Click Bluetooth in the left sidebar

3. Find your AirPods Pro 3 in the device list and click the information icon next to them

4. The firmware version appears in the details panel—note the current version number

5. Keep your AirPods in their case within Bluetooth range of your Mac for 30 minutes

6. Reopen the same Bluetooth details page to confirm the firmware version has updated

AirPods Pro 3 firmware updates work behind the scenes to keep your earbuds performing at their best—you don’t need to do anything except keep them connected to your Apple device. By checking your firmware version occasionally using these straightforward steps, you’ll ensure your AirPods always have the latest features and security improvements. If you encounter persistent update issues, contact Apple Support with your specific firmware version number and detailed description of the problem.