Apple Releases New AirPods Max Firmware

Are they butchering them so people go out and buy the new model?

Apple today released a new firmware update for the Lightning version of the AirPods Max headphones. The new firmware is version 6F25, up from the prior 6F21 firmware ('https://www.macrumors.com/2024/10/22/apple-releases-airpods-firmware-6f21/') the device was previously running.



Apple does not often provide much insight into what's new with firmware updates, but as this is a firmware update for an older model, it likely includes bug fixes and other minor improvements.

Firmware can be installed ('https://www.macrumors.com/2025/01/27/airpods-firmware-update-instructions/') by putting the AirPods Max in Bluetooth range of an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that's connected to Wi-Fi, and then plugging them in to charge. It can take up to 30 minutes for firmware to update.

You can check your firmware version by going to Settings > Bluetooth and selecting the Info button next to the AirPods Max when they are connected to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

Article Link: Apple Releases New AirPods Max Firmware ('https://www.macrumors.com/2025/02/25/airpods-max-firmware-6f25/')

I've read numerous reports indicating that Apple intentionally degrades ANC on the AirPod with each firmware update. I don't know it those reports are true or not. Personally, I haven't noticed any deterioration in ANC on my APPro.

So now, are you saying that Apple is also intentionally degrading the quality of the lightning Max? If so, should I buy the USB C version?

What would happen to Apple if it became common knowledge of their intentional crippling of products to force purchase of new versions?

overpriced for you maybe sure. But for TONS of customers, they are priced right. These sell like hotcakes, in fact so well that they didn't even bother spending RD money to improve. Just released the v2 with a different port.