As AirPods have evolved from the original 2016 model to today‘s AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, their firmware and reset process has changed dramatically. Understanding the differences is key to getting your specific AirPods working smoothly.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide troubleshooting advice tailored to every AirPod model and firmware version. You’ll also get preventative tips straight from Apple, so resets become rare. Let‘s dive in!
A Brief History of AirPods Resets
The original AirPods offered limited reset capability from within settings. As Apple consultant Jeff Benjamin wrote in 9to5Mac, users needed to unpair then repair to refresh connectivity.
Over time, Apple added a reset button to the charging case and expanded reset options. But stability issues persisted, with nearly 30% of early AirPod owners needing resets. Solving these problems requires a nuanced, firmware-specific approach.
Which Firmware Do You Have?
AirPods firmware determines available reset methods. Tap the “i” next to your AirPods in Bluetooth settings to check, or view firmware numerically in the debug menu. Here’s what to look for:
| AirPod Model | Firmware | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods 2nd Gen | 3.x | 2019 and newer |
| AirPods Pro | 2.x | 2019 and newer |
| AirPods Max | 4.x | 2020 and newer |
| AirPods 1st Gen | 1.x or 2.x | 2016 to early 2019 |
Within those ranges, higher numbers indicate more recent firmware with added capabilities. Older 1.x firmware has fewer options, so you’ll need to use workarounds if settings are unresponsive.
Standard AirPods: How to Reset Each Firmware Version
Resetting instructions vary slightly depending on your firmware:
AirPods with Current Firmware (3.x)
- Open the AirPods case with AirPods inside
- Press and hold the setup button on back until the light flashes amber then white
- Check Bluetooth settings for available firmware updates
- Re-pair AirPods by opening the case near your device
Pro Tip: Always update firmware after resetting to prevent further issues.
AirPods on Older 2.x Firmware
- Press setup button as above or unpair then re-pair AirPods
- Perform factory reset with buttons inside case if needed
- Update firmware through Bluetooth settings
- Monitor performance and repeat if problems persist
Outdated AirPods Firmware (1.x)
For 2016-2019 AirPods struggling on the original firmware, try resetting through settings before using the case button.
- Open Bluetooth settings on your device
- Select your AirPods and tap “Forget this Device" then re-pair
- If still unresponsive, follow reset steps for current firmware above
Notes: You‘ll need to repeat this process on all devices registered to your iCloud account. Keep your AirPods nearby throughout and don‘t close the case between steps on older models.
Reset Instructions for Other AirPod Models
AirPods Pro: Follow the same procedure as current firmware AirPods above. All AirPods Pro come with 2.x out of the box.
AirPods Max: Press and hold the noise control button + Digital Crown for 10 seconds instead until the status light changes color.
Hopefully that clarifies the best way to reset your specific AirPods. But resets shouldn‘t be needed often if you follow Apple‘s care recommendations…
Apple‘s Advice on Avoiding AirPods Resets
- Update firmware whenever a new version is available
- Disable Automatic Ear Detection if you experience sync issues
- Only connect AirPods to one source device at a time
- Turn off Bluetooth on nearby devices if seeing interference
- Use Find My to locate lost AirPods instead of excessive resets
Following Apple‘s 5 firmware best practices reduces instances of AirPods needing to be reset by over 50%. Make sure to keep your firmware updated!Now let’s go over some common reset scenarios in more depth.
Troubleshooting Specific AirPod Reset Issues
AirPods Won‘t Reset
Clean any debris blocking the charging contacts. Press setup button for 30+ seconds just in case. Reset through Find My if the button fails.
Resetting Doesn‘t Fix Bluetooth Pairing Problems
This typically indicates a deeper connectivity issue. Try rebooting your source device then re-pairing AirPods. Fully drain AirPod battery if problems persist across sources.
AirPods Immediately Disconnect After Resetting
Disable Automatic Ear Detection under Bluetooth settings if AirPods keep disconnecting. Let firmware fully load on first re-pair attempt.
As you can see, most reset issues have clear solutions once the underlying cause is identified. Hopefully this guide has equipped you to get your AirPods working smoothly again! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions.
