A firmware replace out for AirTag has begun steadily rolling out. You’ll most likely need it, however it seems that updating the software program for Apple’s merchandise tracker is each simple and laborious. You don’t have to leap via hoops, however neither do you might have a lot management.
Right here’s what it’s essential to do.
AirTag replace: It’s a thriller
Many individuals like to make certain their gear is at all times updated, and that features Apple’s tiny trackers. If there are new options, you don’t wish to miss out on them. And meaning maintaining with AirTag firmware updates, that are launched sporadically.
The earlier AirTag firmware model, 2.0.36, got here out in December 2022. However there’s reportedly a brand new model out: 2.0.61.
Because it normally does, Apple is steadily rolling out the brand new firmware. Just one% of the trackers can set up the brand new model now. However it’ll ultimately be accessible for all. It’ll take weeks, although.
Sadly, there’s no method to know what’s modified in model 2.0.61 as a result of Apple doesn’t make launch notes accessible for the sort of replace. It doesn’t even announce them.
Step 1: Be affected person
You’ll be able to’t manually begin a firmware replace on an AirTag. All you are able to do is put the tracker close to the iPhone it’s paired with and wait.
Maintain this in thoughts with AirTags on objects like baggage which are in storage. You’ll have to put them close to your iPhone lengthy sufficient to put in the brand new firmware. Simply being in the identical home/condo/and so forth. isn’t shut sufficient.
Though Apple launched these equipment virtually three years in the past, nobody has discovered if there’s some trick to getting the newest firmware extra shortly. It’s unlikely such a way exists.
AirPods headphones additionally make customers be affected person. These equipment get software program updates the identical manner — put them close to an iPhone and wait. And nobody has ever discovered a trick for rushing up the method.
Find out how to test on AirTag firmware updates
AirTag customers can a minimum of simply discover out if they’ve the newest firmware.
- Open the Discover My software on an iPhone or iPad and go to the Gadgets tab.
- Faucet on an AirTag within the record of Gadgets.
- Right here’s the tough half: Faucet on the battery icon for the AirTag. If that’s not exhibiting, faucet on With You Now. That may show the AirTag’s serial quantity and firmware model.

Photograph: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
Apple’s tracker debuted working model 1.0.225., however fairly just a few firmware updates have been launched since then, together with a change to the audible alarm put in place to make AirTags more durable to make use of to stalk individuals.
But when your AirTag remains to be working model 2.0.24, it positively wants an replace. And a pair of.0.36 is now additionally out of date.
For extra, learn Apple’s information to establishing AirTags.
This text was first printed in June 21. It has been periodically up to date since then every time new AirTag firmware is launched.