Airpods Pro 2 Firmware Update

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I’m interested in trying the hearing aid function that Apple is releasing for the Air Pods Pro 2. My understanding is that the iOS version on the controlling device must be updated (check- running 18.1.1 on my iPhone 16 Pro Max) and the firmware on the Air Pods must be up to date. Therein lies my problem. My firmware is 2 major versions old and I can’t seem to get it to update. I’ve tried everything I’ve found online to “force” the update. With the Air Pods and case fully charged and plugged into power, connect with my iPhone and walk away. No go. Plug the Air Pods into my Macbook and with my iPhone connected, walk away. No go. Has anyone successfully updated their firmware in another way?

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Updating the AirPods is not done manually. The AirPods need to be in the charging case and within Bluetooth range of a device they are paired with. Instructions are at the top here:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/106340

The Hearing Aid function requires iOS 18.1 or later and AirPods Pro 2 (current Firmware is v.7B21), but mine were working with v.7B19.

Further reference AKB2000014 under AirPods.

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Michael432

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Yup, those are the articles that I found as well. I was hoping that someone discovered something that I haven’t yet. Thanks for the reply!

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Mine have updated that way. I left them over night.

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Try it with the case open?

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Yes, that’s what I did. Perhaps I was too impatient? I only left it for an hour or so. I’ll try an overnight next.

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I was successful following the Apple instructions, probably took 3 attempts though – I was in a PC session for a couple of hours and just made a few checks and minor adjustments (I might have opened the iPods case) and the update began.

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I had a set that I had to blow off and reconnect and then they updated.

Susan Bradley Patch Lady/Prudent patcher

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Thanks. I’ll give that a try. I left them connected all night over the weekend and still no joy.

 

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Firmware updates are delivered automatically while your AirPods are charging and in Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac that’s connected to Wi-Fi. You can also use your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to check that your AirPods have the latest version.

You met all the highlighted requirements? Case connected by bluetooth?

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Yes. I’ve made several attempts, each time meeting those requirements.

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I’ve been told I would benefit from hearing aids but I’m not an iPhone user. So, I have a few questions about the new AirPods Pro with the hearing aid feature. I do use a MacBook Pro and have an older used iPhone (given to me) and an iPad as well. These are used for testing apps, but it is not the phone I carry around, nor do I bring the iPad everywhere I go. The phone I use is an Android – Pixel 7.

If I purchased the AirPods Pro 2, and get the update for the hearing help, via my Mac, will they continue to work if I don’t have an iPhone in range or being linked an iPhone?

Also, can Apple AirPods be paired via the Bluetooth with an Android phone?

If it comes down to it, it would still be cheaper to buy a new mini iPad and the Airppods than to pay for hearing aids, but I wonder, do I have to have a late model iOS product and also carry it around?

Thanks for the feedback.

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See: https://www.askwoody.com/forums/topic/apple-airpods-pro-2-as-hearing-aids/

Information and instructions can be found at Apple here. The AirPods Pro 2 have the hearing aid function. They need to be paired with an iPhone or iPad running iOS 18.1 or later for setup and also firmware updating. I do not believe they pair with Android devices for hearing aid function, as Android does not run iOS. They can function outside the bluetooth range of the Apple device with their last settings. Without the Apple device in bluetooth range, you will not be able to change the settings. They also pair with my MacBook Pro – macOS 15.1 Sequoia or later is required. I don’t think you can set them up with the MacBook. The hearing test requires a touch screen.

They are good for mild to moderate hearing loss.

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Michael432

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Thanks PKCano,

That is a great help. Looks like it’s time trade in the old iPad for a new mini iPad. That’s what I’ll tell the wife. It can be my Christmas present from her. Something to think about anyway.

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Obviously, this isn’t iDevice related, but I’ve been considering these hearing aids: https://audienhearing.com/  They are over the counter and far less expensive than prescription. They’re running Christmas deals now and you can save $100 or so depending on the model.

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Open a new Topic (not under Apple Accessories) on those hearing aids if you want to explore them further.

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I finally got the firmware to update. I contacted Apple support for an assist before I headed to an Apple store, which is some distance from my home. The first attempt was what I’ve been trying and what PKCano suggested, with one small step added. They recommended that I use them for 30 seconds or more before inserting them into the case for the update. This didn’t work either. Ultimately I had to hard reset them and re-pair them to my phone. Then I followed the steps that I had been doing and the update came through.

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PKCano

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