Apple rolling out new Find My features for AirPods Pro and AirPods Max (and Conversation Boost)

Benjamin Mayo, 9to5Mac:

Earlier today, we reported that new firmware versions are gradually rolling out for Apple’s wireless headphone products. This new software enables Find My support for AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, which Apple first teased back in June at WWDC.

This means that the compatible AirPods models gain new functionality inside of the Find My app, including precise location, a new Nearby Finding UI, Lost Mode, and the ability to get notifications when your earbuds are left behind.

For the AirPods Pro, the old firmware is 3E751, the new is 4A400. No advertised way to force a firmware update but, for me, a method that’s worked:

  • Connect your AirPods Pro to your iPhone
  • Listen to something for a few minutes
  • Put the AirPods back in their case
  • Plug the case into your charger

Reliable? Pure superstition? Who knows. But I just did this and it worked for me. Your mileage may vary.

Back to the update:

The new integration now means that AirPods Pro and AirPods Max participate in the Find My network, and send out a continuous Bluetooth beacon message. When other Apple devices are in the area, they can detect this signal and report it to the Find My network, placing its location on the owner’s map. This is just like how AirTags work at long range.

As to Conversation Boost, start by going to:

Settings > Accessibility > AirPods > Audio accessibility settings

From there, with your AirPods Pro or Max in/on and connected, tap on Headphone Accommodations, then tap on the switch to turn Headphone Accommodations on.

Now tap on Custom Audio Setup. You’ll go through a sequence to test and customize your settings (this part got added with iOS 14). At the end of the process, you’ll see a switch (towards the bottom of the screen) to enable Conversation Boost.

As far as I know, this is new to the new firmware.