Apple makes it easier for AirPods users without iPhones to install updates, here’s how – Times of India

Apple rolls out over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates for its audio devices which include — AirPods, AirPods Pro and AirPods Max headphones regularly. However, users need a nearby device like an iPhone, iPad, or Mac to install these updates. So, for users who don’t have a secondary Apple device (apart from the AirPods), there is no other way to install a new firmware update on their AirPods. For the comfort of AirPods users, the company is now changing this process. Apple has recently updated its AirPods firmware support document to address this situation.
The company has recommended a new solution for users without an Apple device. Such users can visit an Apple Store or an Apple Authorised Service Provider to update their AirPods’ firmware. The support document reads: “If you don’t have an Apple device nearby, you can set up an appointment at an Apple Store or with an Apple Authorized Service Provider to update your firmware.
AirPods firmware update at Apple Store: Availability
This service will be available for all AirPods owners who don’t have another Apple device with them in all Apple Stores and Apple Authorised Service Providers globally. Apple has recently announced two new stores in India.

The Cupertino-based tech giant has confirmed that these two new Apple Stores will open in Mumbai and Delhi. These stores are named Apple BKC and Apple Saket, respectively. The AirPods update service will also be available in these stores once they are up and running.
Most AirPods users usually own some kind of Apple device. So, visiting a retail location just to update firmware may sound inconvenient.
Users have to keep in mind that these firmware updates won’t be available on Windows PCs or Android devices as Apple doesn’t have any kind of AirPods management app for those platforms. However, the company does offer a Beats app for Android devices that allows firmware updates.
How these firmware updates will be installed
Apple also updated the document to explain that these firmware updates are installed automatically. This happens only when the AirPods are charging and are within range of an ‌iPhone‌, ‌iPad‌, or Mac that is connected to WiFi.
The company has also recently rolled out new AirPods firmware. The latest firmware version 5E133 brings bug fixes and other improvements to the AirPods 2, AirPods 3, ‌AirPods Pro‌, ‌AirPods Pro‌ 2, and ‌AirPods Max‌.