Apple has released a new firmware, version 7E101, for AirPods Pro Max with USB-C ports, to enable Lossless audio for premium headphones. The company had announced support for lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio for AirPods Max with iOS 18.4, however, the the company released and quickly rolled-back the firmware on April 1st to fix some issues.
Here’s a quick recap of how the new lossless audio and ultra-low latency features work after the update:
- On iPhone, iPad, or Mac running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS Sequoia 15.4, the USB-C AirPods Max now support 24-bit 48 kHz lossless audio.
- Ultra-low latency audio minimizes lag, making the headphones optimal for music production, gaming and content creation.
- The update also allows music creators to mix in Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking using just a USB-C cable and a Mac running Logic Pro or other supported music production software.
To ensure that your AirPods Max are updated to the latest version so they support the new features, follow the steps below:
How to check your AirPods Max firmware version
To verify that your AirPods Max are running the latest firmware:
- On iPhone or iPad: Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the Info button next to your AirPods, and scroll down to see the firmware version.
- On Mac: Navigate to System Settings > Bluetooth, click the Info button next to your AirPods, and check the firmware details.
How to update your AirPods Max firmware
Apple does not provide a manual update option for AirPods firmware, but the update installs automatically when the AirPods are in Bluetooth range of an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that is connected to Wi-Fi and charging. For AirPods Max, Apple specifically recommends:
- Ensuring that your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is updated to iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS Sequoia 15.4.
- Connecting your AirPods Max to Bluetooth on your Apple device.
- Plugging AirPods Max into a USB charger or port.
- Keeping them in Bluetooth range of your Apple device for at least 30 minutes. Checking the firmware version again after the update process.
