blog | Why doesn’t Apple still care about AirPod users?

Apple recently updated its Rapid Security Response feature in iOS/iPadOS 16.4.1 and macOS 13.3.1, which separates important security patches from full OS updates and automatically downloads and installs them. For all models except for the first-generation AirPods released Firmware update (5E135)announced. But I’m pretty sure most AirPods don’t have the new firmware, let alone the older version (5E133).

It’s been quite a while since AirPods were first released. But Apple doesn’t provide a proper way to update the AirPods’ firmware. All other devices have a button to download and install updates, but AirPods do not. To update AirPods, you must 1) know that there is an update, 2) plug in the charging cable within the range of connecting the AirPods to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and 3) wait for a certain amount of time.

Most users who don’t know these steps won’t even know that the firmware is being updated since the day they bought their AirPods. I wonder how many of you know how to check the firmware version currently installed on your AirPods (press ‘Bluetooth’ in the Settings app, then press the ‘i’ button next to the AirPod’s name. Scroll down to ‘About’) ‘ section to check the firmware version).

The situation is even worse for users who don’t have any other Apple devices besides AirPods. Windows PC or Android smartphone users can’t update their AirPods even if they know all this information. Apple advises going to the Apple Store and updating to the latest firmware. Of course, there aren’t many users like this, but if you want to sell AirPods to people who don’t have Apple devices, it makes sense to provide a way to update them without making a reservation and visiting the Apple Store.

AirPods updates aren’t as important as iPhones or Macs or Apple Watches, but they shouldn’t be a black hole. Also, AirPods updates aren’t just bug fixes or other improvements. Occasionally, new features such as spatial audio and transmissive modes are added after purchase. I’m sure there are some AirPods Pro users who didn’t realize they had a new feature because Apple didn’t announce it.

With three models and a few devices in use, Apple’s AirPods are no longer a niche product. It’s even more popular than the HomePod, which can be easily updated through the Home app. Apple needs to come up with an easy way to update AirPods firmware before iOS 17 is released.
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