Apple releases new firmware for AirPods and Beats products

Image: MacRumors

Apple recently released a firmware update for several of its wireless headphone models, including the AirPods Pro 2, first-generation AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, AirPods (second- and third-gen), Beats Fit Pro, and PowerBeats Pro.

The second-gen ‌AirPods Pro‌ models, the PowerBeats Pro, and the Beats Fit Pro now have firmware version 6F8 (up from 6F7), while the other models have firmware version 6A326 (up from 6A321).

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Gucci launches CA$1,270 AirPods Max case

Source: Gucci

Gucci is introducing another premium Apple accessory into its stable. This time, the luxury Italian brand wants you to show off your AirPods Max in an expensive case that stays true to the company. The online-exclusive Ophidia case for the AirPods Max is designed to mix vintage and contemporary looks, brought together by archive-inspired Gucci design elements.

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Netflix is reportedly testing out spatial audio support for AirPods Pro, AirPods Max

Netflix might be the next streaming service to support spatial audio. According to a story from iPhoneSoft, Netflix might launch the feature this spring using a "small catalogue." The report sites an unnamed Netflix employee that claims the company started testing out spatial audio in December 2020.

Spatial audio is a feature that utilizes head tracking technology to mimic an immersive surround sound experience on the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. When it is enabled, it'll sound like audio is coming from around the user with the sound mapped to the device. Spatial audio is already supported by services like Apple TV+, HBO Max, and Disney+.

Source: AppleInsider

Apple claims the AirPods Max's Smart Case won't make much of a difference on battery life

The AirPods Max's Smart Case has garnered a lot of attention, not just for its looks but also for how it seems to be a necessary accessory to switch off these Apple headphones entirely. A new Apple support document, though, refutes this assumption. The AirPods Max has three power modes: in use, low power, and ultra-low power. Whether you put the AirPods Max in the case or not, the headphones enter low power mode almost instantaneously. If you put it in the case, it's immediate; it takes around five minutes if you don't. 

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