I am very familiar with wifi. Spent my whole life doing it. its an ipad 6th gen fully updated 2021 model.
It connects EASILY to my turbo sound, my mackie, berhinger…not this unit. tried 5 and 2.4
as for distance it is 3 feet away from the unit
Firmware update can be done with a USB STICK. BUT actually less hassle when done from the remote app. Keep trying with the remote app. You can call me for help
Troy 863-286-7814