TL;DR
Apple has rolled out firmware version 101.0 for the iPhone Air MagSafe Battery, replacing the prior 99.0 build. Apple provided no release notes and the update installs automatically in the background while the accessory is in use.
What happened
Apple has quietly updated the firmware for its iPhone Air MagSafe Battery accessory to version 101.0, up from the previous 99.0 release. The change was reported by MacRumors and summarized in coverage from Ryan Christoffel. Unlike Apple's frequent AirPods firmware refreshes — the site notes a recent AirPods Pro 3 update arrived the day before — accessory firmware updates are less common. Apple has not published release notes for the MagSafe Battery update, and there is no documented way for users to force the installation. According to Apple’s guidance, firmware for the accessory will install automatically in the background while the device is being used. Users can verify which firmware their MagSafe Battery is running via the Settings app on their iPhone. The company and the report did not detail specific functional changes or fixes included in 101.0.
Why it matters
- Firmware updates can address compatibility and stability issues between accessories and iOS, so this change may affect how the MagSafe Battery works with recent software.
- Automatic background installation means users may receive the update without a manual action or clear notification.
- Accessory firmware updates are less frequent than AirPods updates, so this release signals Apple is still issuing occasional firmware revisions for MagSafe peripherals.
- Because Apple provided no release notes, users should monitor their devices for any unexpected behavior or improvements and check the Settings app for the installed version.
Key facts
- Accessory: iPhone Air MagSafe Battery (as referenced in the report).
- New firmware version: 101.0; previous version was 99.0.
- Apple did not publish release notes for this firmware update.
- There is no manual method provided to trigger the update; it installs automatically in the background while the accessory is in use.
- Users can check the MagSafe Battery firmware version in the iPhone Settings app.
- The update was reported via MacRumors and covered by Ryan Christoffel on Jan. 14, 2026.
- The article contrasts this accessory update with Apple’s more frequent AirPods firmware releases, noting a recent AirPods Pro 3 update the day prior.
What to watch next
- User reports of any noticeable changes in charging behavior, compatibility, or stability after the 101.0 update — not confirmed in the source.
- Whether Apple publishes formal release notes or details outlining what 101.0 changes — not confirmed in the source.
- If Apple introduces a manual firmware update option for MagSafe accessories in future software releases — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Firmware: Low-level software programmed into a hardware device that controls its basic functions and can be updated to fix issues or add compatibility.
- MagSafe: Apple’s ecosystem of magnetic accessories and charging solutions designed to attach to and work with compatible iPhones.
- Release notes: Documentation provided by a manufacturer describing changes, fixes, or improvements included in a software or firmware update.
- Background update: An automatic installation process that occurs while a device is in use or idle, without requiring manual initiation by the user.
Reader FAQ
How do I check which firmware my MagSafe Battery is running?
You can view the MagSafe Battery firmware version in the iPhone Settings app.
Can I force the MagSafe Battery to update manually?
No. The report states there is no manual way to trigger the update; it installs automatically in the background while the accessory is in use.
What changes are included in firmware 101.0?
Apple did not publish release notes for this update; the specific changes were not detailed in the source.
Is this update part of a regular cadence like AirPods firmware?
The article notes Apple releases AirPods firmware relatively often, but accessory updates like this MagSafe Battery release are less common.
Apple debuts ‘Apple Creator Studio’ subscription, here’s what you get Chance Miller Jan 13 2026 ACCESSORIES Apple’s latest MagSafe Battery accessory gets new firmware Ryan Christoffel | Jan 14 2026 -…
Sources
- Apple’s latest MagSafe Battery accessory gets new firmware
- Apple Releases New Firmware Update for iPhone Air MagSafe Battery
- Apple Releases New Firmware Update for iPhone Air …
- Apple releases new firmware for iPhone Air MagSafe Battery
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