New firmware available for AirPods Max with USB-C port

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Apple has released a new firmware update for the USB-C variant of the AirPods Max, although no information is available about the update's contents.

Person holding sleek black over-ear headphones with both hands on a white surface.
Apple has released a firmware update for the more recent AirPods Max with a USB-C connector.



Tuesday's firmware update increases the build number to 7E108, up from the previous 7E101. Unlike most firmware updates, this software release is only compatible with the more recent version of the AirPods Max, equipped with a USB-C port.

Though the exact contents of the 7E108 firmware update are unclear, the software likely includes various bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements, possibly for new AirPods Max features introduced with the earlier 7E101 update.

Though two features were originally meant to roll out with the 7E99 firmware update, the USB-C variant of the AirPods Max finally gained support for lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio with version 7E101.

The update was exclusive to the USB-C model of AirPods Max, which supports true 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio over a direct digital connection. The older Lightning-based version can access lossless content using Apple's Lightning to 3.5 mm headphone jack adapter.

Firmware version 7E101 also introduced support for ultra-low latency audio. The feature lowers the lag time between audio playing on a connected device and it being played and heard through the AirPods Max into the user's ears.

As for the latest 7E108 update, it may contain additional fixes or improvements for lossless or ultra-low latency audio on the AirPods Max variant with a USB-C port.

Tuesday's 7E108 firmware is installed automatically when the AirPods Max are in Bluetooth range of an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that's connected to Wi-Fi. There is no manual installation method for this firmware update, and the installation can take up to 30 minutes when the AirPods Max are connected to power.

How to check your AirPods firmware version



AirPods Max users can check the current firmware for their audio accessories by accessing the Settings app on their iPhone or iPad.


  • Open the Settings App

  • Select General

  • Select About

  • Select the AirPods you wish to view


A menu will appear showing relevant device information.



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Comments

  • Reply 1 of 3
    JohnDinEUjohndineu Posts: 26member
    I own a pair but unfortunately I own the first generation. Can someone here please tell me if the software upgrade created better audio as with my first generation? I’m actually quite sad the first generation didn’t get the software upgrade, I guess it has to do with the chipset.. Does anyone know if there’s a workaround? Thank you. 
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  • Reply 2 of 3
    thedbathedba Posts: 844member
    I just think that this firmware upgrade must have something to do with the USB-C connector.
    If it's anything else like advanced codecs or whatever, then it's a real "d!ckish" move by Apple since, at least to my knowledge, the two versions are identical, hardware-wise.
    Other than the connector of course.  
    Appleish
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  • Reply 3 of 3
    Appleishappleish Posts: 767member
    thedba said:
    I just think that this firmware upgrade must have something to do with the USB-C connector.
    If it's anything else like advanced codecs or whatever, then it's a real "d!ckish" move by Apple since, at least to my knowledge, the two versions are identical, hardware-wise.
    Other than the connector of course.  
    Looking forwards to AirPods Pro v3. I agree with the "d!ckishness" of the 'upgrade.' Cured me of investing in their 'high-end' cans in the future.
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