Frustration is brewing among Apple’s premium headphone users as the highly anticipated firmware update for the AirPods Max remains elusive. The update, which promised to unlock 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio and ultra-low latency support for the USB-C version of the headphones, has been stalled by an unexpected software bug within the newly released iOS 18.4.
Apple officially announced the arrival of these groundbreaking audio features just last week, sending waves of excitement through the audiophile community and creative professionals alike. The company highlighted that the update would allow listeners to experience music exactly as the artists intended, preserving the integrity of original recordings. Furthermore, the ultra-low latency support was touted as a game-changer for music creators utilizing AirPods Max with professional applications like Logic Pro.
On Monday, alongside the rollout of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4, Apple released the AirPods Max firmware update, version 7E99, specifically for the USB-C model. This simultaneous release suggested a smooth transition to the enhanced audio experience. However, reports soon began to surface from eager AirPods Max owners who found themselves unable to download and install the new firmware.
MacRumors has since confirmed that the update’s unavailability is indeed due to an unspecified software bug present within iOS 18.4. This glitch is preventing the firmware from being successfully installed on the headphones, leaving users stuck with the previous firmware version. As of now, there are no confirmed instances of a successful update among AirPods Max users.
The exact nature of the conflict between the firmware and Apple’s latest operating system remains unclear. Tech enthusiasts and affected users are speculating on potential causes, ranging from minor software conflicts to more significant underlying issues. Whatever the reason, the situation has left a cloud of disappointment over what was supposed to be a significant upgrade for the premium headphones.
Apple has acknowledged the issue on its AirPods firmware support page, where the problematic firmware version 7E99 is now listed as “coming soon.” This indicates that the company is aware of the problem and is actively working on a solution. However, the lack of a specific timeline for the fix has left many wondering how long they will have to wait to experience the promised lossless audio quality.
The inability to access the new firmware is particularly disheartening for owners of the USB-C AirPods Max, as the lossless audio feature is exclusive to this model, launched last year. The Lightning version of the AirPods Max will not receive this upgrade. This exclusivity was a key selling point for the newer model, making the current delay even more frustrating for those who invested in it.
Updating AirPods firmware has never been a straightforward process for users. The update typically happens automatically in the background when the AirPods are connected via Bluetooth to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that is connected to Wi-Fi and the AirPods are charging within their case, near the device for at least 30 minutes. This passive approach offers convenience but provides little control or visibility to the user during the update process. In this current situation, the automatic update mechanism is failing due to the iOS 18.4 bug, leaving users with no manual way to force the installation.
The delay also impacts the wired playback capabilities that were supposed to be introduced with this firmware update for the USB-C AirPods Max. For the first time, owners of this model would have been able to enjoy wired audio using Apple’s new USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable. This feature, highly desired by those seeking the purest audio fidelity or needing a reliable connection in environments where wireless signals are restricted, is now also on hold.
This isn’t the first time Apple has encountered issues with software updates, but the fact that a major firmware release for a premium product is being blocked by a bug in the latest operating system raises questions about the testing and quality assurance processes. While software complexities can lead to unforeseen issues, users expect a smoother experience, especially when significant new features are involved.
The situation has sparked discussions among Apple users on online forums and social media platforms. Some express understanding that software development can be challenging, while others voice their disappointment and frustration over the delayed gratification. The lack of a clear explanation from Apple regarding the specific nature of the bug and the estimated time for a fix has further fueled these discussions.
For now, AirPods Max owners are left in a state of anticipation. They have the latest iOS 18.4 installed, which in itself brings a host of new features like priority notifications, ambient music, and new emoji. However, the inability to unlock the full potential of their high-end headphones due to this unexpected snag is undoubtedly a letdown.
Apple has stated that the update is “coming soon,” but the vagueness of this timeline offers little comfort to those eagerly awaiting the enhanced audio experience. Users are hoping for a swift resolution, perhaps in the form of a point update to iOS 18.4, which would specifically address this bug and allow the AirPods Max firmware to be installed successfully.
The incident serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between hardware and software in Apple’s ecosystem. While tight integration often leads to seamless experiences, it also means that issues in one area can have a ripple effect on others. In this case, a bug in the iPhone operating system is directly impacting the functionality of a separate hardware product.
As the days pass, AirPods Max users will be closely monitoring Apple’s support pages and waiting for any news regarding the release of the corrected software. The promise of lossless and low-latency audio remains a tantalizing prospect, and the hope is that Apple will deliver the update soon, allowing users to finally experience their premium headphones to their fullest potential. Until then, the “coming soon” message offers a glimmer of hope in the face of this unexpected delay.
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