It’s unclear what’s included in today’s firmware update, and Apple hasn’t updated its AirPods firmware support page.
Apple will need to release AirPods firmware to enable iOS 17 features coming to AirPods next month, however. AirPods firmware updates aren’t as cut and dry as iPhone software updates. Perhaps Apple is pushing the compatible firmware to AirPods in time for iOS 17’s arrival in two weeks.
An AirPods firmware update will be required along with iOS 17 to use new features. For example, AirPods Pro 2 will be gain these five new features and enhancements:
Adaptive Audio Conversation Awareness Click to Mute/Unmute Improved Automatic Switching Personalized VolumeThe new firmware, build 6A5299b, is not on the developer beta train and appears to be out for AirPods Pro 2 so far. We’ll update as we learn more.