iOS 10.0.2 Update Brings Fix for Lightning EarPods Issue and More

Apple released the first iOS 10 incremental update for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices on Friday. A bug fixing update, iOS 10.0.2 primarily addresses the Lightning headphones bug that caused the playback controls to stop working momentarily.

The official release note for the iOS 10.0.2 update confirms that it also brings a fix for an issue that caused Photos to quit for some users when turning on iCloud Photo Library, and a fix for an issue that prevented enabling some app extensions. As we mentioned, the headline fix the update brings is for an issue that prevented headphone audio controls from temporarily not working.

The issue was first reported by several iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus users earlier this month and it affected both the bundled Lightning EarPods and third-party headsets that were connected via the Lightning-to-3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter. The issue reportedly occurred when the smartphone's display was off for five minutes, with the headset connected but not playing back audio during that time. After this point, audio playback would work, but users could not adjust the volume, activate Siri, or answer calls using the in-line controls on the EarPods or third-party headsets. Notably, the glitch was an on and off thing which means it was not persistent. A temporary fix for the issue was to remove and plug in the affected headset again though this was not a permanent fix.

Apple acknowledged the issue last week and had promised that a fix will be brought to users via a software update in the near future.

Users can install the iOS 10.0.2 update directly from their device, or via iTunes. Don't forget to backup your iOS device before you download and install.

Users are recommended to download directly if they have enough free space on their iOS device. Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Tap Download and Install. When the download is complete, tap Install and tap Agree when Apple shows you its Terms and Conditions. Your iOS device will restart and iOS 10.0.2 will be installed.

If you don't have enough free space on your iOS device, you can install the update via iTunes. If you don't have iTunes installed on your PC, first download and install it. Open iTunes. Connect the iOS device to your PC or Mac. In iTunes select your device's icon on the top bar. Click the Summary tab and then click Check for update. Now click Download and update. Follow the simple on-screen instructions to install iOS 10.0.2.