Apple has published a new support document that lists the security content of AirPods and Beats firmware updates. According to the document, the latest firmware for AirPods and Beats headphone models patched the same Bluetooth security vulnerability.
Last month, Apple released AirPods firmware update 5E133 which only mentioned performance improvements and bug fixes, along with the instruction for users without an Apple device to visit an Apple Store to update their firmware.
Now, we know that firmware 5E133 also patched a security flaw that could have given an attacker access to the headphones.
Apple improved the authentication issue in Beats 5B66 and AirPods 5E133 firmware
Recently, Apple released Beats firmware update 5B66 for Powerbeats Pro and Beats Fit Pro models.
According to the new document, the latest firmware update improved that authentication issue to fix a security flaw that was discovered by Yun-hao Chung and Archie Pusaka of Google ChromeOS.
Impact: When your headphones are seeking a connection request to one of your previously paired devices, an attacker in Bluetooth range might be able to spoof the intended source device and gain access to your headphones.
It is also listed that the AirPods firmware update 5E133 released on April 11 for AirPods (2nd and 3rd generation), AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation), and AirPods Max had fixed the same issue which was also discovered by the same security researchers.
Firmware updates are only pushed and installed automatically on the devices while they are on charging and in Bluetooth range of user’s iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
In iOS 16, Apple introduced a new way for users to check the firmware version of their headphones and access its dedicated support.
- Open the Setting app > Bluetooth.
- Tap on the “i” icon in front of the headphones name, AirPods or Beats.
- Tap on Version to view the firmware build and access the support page for details.
Read More:
