Apple has released a new firmware version—9B47—for its current AirPods lineup, updating AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, AirPods 5, and AirPods Max 2. The firmware replaces prior builds 9A348/9A350. Apple had been testing versions of this update in recent weeks but hasn’t yet published any official release notes.
Which AirPods Are Getting It & How It Rolls Out
This update affects the latest AirPods—Pro 2, Pro 3, 4, 5—and the second-gen AirPods Max. When it comes to getting the firmware onto your devices, the process happens automatically: plug the AirPods into an Apple device and connect them to a power source. Since there’s no manual “update now” button for AirPods firmware, activating the update process may take hours. Users just need to ensure their devices are paired and charging to let the firmware install.
No Changelog Yet, But Beta Tests Happened
While Apple hasn’t disclosed the fix or enhancements included in build 9B47, several beta versions—numbered above 9B350—have been in circulation. Users and testers have been waiting for details, but Apple has indicated via its support site that notes will be published soon. Those running these new AirPods firmware builds won’t see them immediately unless their devices are plugged in and paired long enough for the automatic install to kick in.
This firmware push follows standard Apple procedure: new features sometimes ship silently, with users learning about fixes only well after the fact. Given the jump from 9A348/9A350, there’s reason to suspect bug fixes, performance enhancements, or new features, though nothing concrete is confirmed yet.
For now, if you own any of the updated AirPods models, it’s enough to keep your case charging while paired—firmware 9B47 should arrive in due course.
What This Means and What to Watch For: The lack of release notes puts users in the dark on what exactly has changed—this has become a recurring pattern with AirPods firmware. Still, the rollout reflects Apple’s effort to keep its audio hardware updated in line with broader ecosystem enhancements. Watch for any user-reported improvements in battery life, audio quality, or connectivity—and for Apple to finally post its support documentation detailing the changes. For power users and audiophiles, compare performance before and after the update to spot what’s new.
