AirPods - Revision history

Tempo123: /* References */ Archive CRW link

2026-04-15T16:16:07Z

References: Archive CRW link

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:16, 15 April 2026
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	Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in October 2020, and determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured ''before'' October 2020 were defective.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=		Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in October 2020, and determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured ''before'' October 2020 were defective.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=
	\|title=AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues \|url=https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|website=[[Apple]] \|date=30 Oct 2020 \|access-date= \|url-status=dead		\|title=AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues \|url=https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|website=[[Apple]] \|date=30 Oct 2020 \|access-date= \|url-status=dead
	\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604082736/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|archive-date=4 Jun 2022}}</ref> They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. On 1 October 2021,<ref>{{Cite web \|author= \|title=Comparison between captures taken 1 October 2021 and 2 October 2021 on the Wayback Machine \|url=https://web.archive.org/web/diff/20211001134456/20211002135152/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues ~~\|website=[[Internet Archive]] \|date= \|access-date=9 Apr 2026~~ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://consumerrights.wiki/w/~~File:~~Wayback_Machine_comparison_tool_Oct_2021_for_AirPods.png \|archive-date=9 Apr 2026}}</ref> Apple quietly extended this to ''three years''.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=matejamm1 \|title=PSA: Apple silently extended the AirPods Pro Service Program for an additional year, now covering AirPods that crackle for 3 years in total after first sale. \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|website=[[Reddit]] \|date=13 Oct 2021 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260410012435/https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|archive-date=10 Apr 2026}}</ref>		\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604082736/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|archive-date=4 Jun 2022}}</ref> They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. On 1 October 2021,<ref>{{Cite web \|author= \|date= \|title=Comparison between captures taken 1 October 2021 and 2 October 2021 on the Wayback Machine \|url=https://web.archive.org/web/diff/20211001134456/20211002135152/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://megalodon.jp/2026-0416-0104-53/https://consumerrights.wiki:443/images/b/bc/Wayback_Machine_comparison_tool_Oct_2021_for_AirPods.png \|archive-date=15 Apr 2026 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|website=[[Internet Archive]]}}</ref> Apple quietly extended this to ''three years''.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=matejamm1 \|title=PSA: Apple silently extended the AirPods Pro Service Program for an additional year, now covering AirPods that crackle for 3 years in total after first sale. \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|website=[[Reddit]] \|date=13 Oct 2021 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260410012435/https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|archive-date=10 Apr 2026}}</ref>

	Despite Apple's claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the ''exact same'' rattling and crackling. Because Apple's internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed", these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard one-year warranty (or two-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.{{Citation needed\|date=4 Apr 2026}}		Despite Apple's claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the ''exact same'' rattling and crackling. Because Apple's internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed", these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard one-year warranty (or two-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.{{Citation needed\|date=4 Apr 2026}}

Sojourna: Clean-up; pass on style. Removed a sentence for lacking citation. Removed clean-up tag.

2026-04-10T03:58:51Z

Clean-up; pass on style. Removed a sentence for lacking citation. Removed clean-up tag.

Show changes

Sojourna: /* Connection security vulnerability (2025) */

2026-04-09T21:44:37Z

Connection security vulnerability (2025)

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:44, 9 April 2026
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	===Connection security vulnerability (''2025'')===		===Connection security vulnerability (''2025'')===
	Main ~~Article: [[~~AirPods ~~Connection Vulnerability]]~~[[File:NIST-re.png\|alt=CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment\|thumb\|CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment]]		{{Main\|AirPods connection vulnerability}}
	A security vulnerability was discovered by Jonas Dreßler, ~~this vulnerability~~ would allow an attacker within the ~~bluetooth~~ range of any AirPods device to potentially spoof the source device address, redirecting it to another device controlled by the attacker and gaining control of the AirPods.<ref>{{Cite web \|~~date~~=~~2024-06-24~~ \|title=CVE-2024-27867 Detail \|url=https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251109172541/https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 \|archive-date=2025-11-09 \|access-date=2026-03-05 \|~~website~~=~~National Institute of Standards and Technology {{!}} NIST~~}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|~~date~~=~~2024-06-25~~ \|title=About the security content of AirPods Firmware Update 6A326, AirPods Firmware Update 6F8, and Beats Firmware Update 6F8 \|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224082150/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 \|archive-date=~~2026-02-~~24 ~~\|access-date=~~2026~~-03-05 \|website=Apple Support \|publisher=Apple Inc.~~}}</ref>		[[File:NIST-re.png\|alt=CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment\|thumb\|CVE-2024-27867 NIST Assessment]]
			A security vulnerability was discovered by Jonas Dreßler, which would allow an attacker within the Bluetooth range of any AirPods device to potentially spoof the source device address, redirecting it to another device controlled by the attacker and gaining control of the AirPods.<ref>{{Cite web \|author= \|title=CVE-2024-27867 Detail \|url=https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 \|website=National Institute of Standards and Technology \|date=24 Jun 2024 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251109172541/https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 \|archive-date=9 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|author=Divya \|title=Apple AirPods Bluetooth Vulnerability Lets Attackers Gain Access to Device \|url=https://cybersecuritynews.com/apple-airpods-bluetooth-vulnerability/ \|website=Cyber Security News \|date=27 Jun 2024 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627080357/https://cybersecuritynews.com/apple-airpods-bluetooth-vulnerability/ \|archive-date=27 Jun 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|author= \|title=About the security content of AirPods Firmware Update 6A326, AirPods Firmware Update 6F8, and Beats Firmware Update 6F8 \|url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 \|website=[[Apple]] \|date=25 Jun 2025 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224082150/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120907 \|archive-date=24 Feb 2026}}</ref>

	==Products==		==Products==

Sojourna: /* AirPods Max moisture issue (2021) */

2026-04-09T21:31:51Z

AirPods Max moisture issue (2021)

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:31, 9 April 2026
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	===AirPods Max moisture issue (''2021'')===		===AirPods Max moisture issue (''2021'')===
	{{Main\|AirPods Max ~~Moisture Issue~~}}		{{Main\|AirPods Max moisture issue}}
	[[File:Airpods-max-moisture.jpeg\|alt=A photo showing the moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's Headphones after exercising on an indoor bike. \|thumb\|Moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's AirPods Max after exercising on an indoor bike.]]		[[File:Airpods-max-moisture.jpeg\|alt=A photo showing the moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's Headphones after exercising on an indoor bike. \|thumb\|Moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's AirPods Max after exercising on an indoor bike.]]
	Many Apple AirPods Max owners have reported moisture issues with the headphones. More specifically, after around 30 or more minutes of use, users have reported a visible buildup of moisture near the speakers of the ear-cups.<ref>{{Cite web \|~~date~~=~~2021-01-04~~ \|title=Condensation in the ~~Airpods~~ Max \|url=https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252267540~~?sortBy~~=~~rank~~ \|access-date=2026-03-05 \|~~website~~=~~Apple Community~~}}</ref> Depending on the severity of the moisture buildup present, the headphones could fail between five days of use in the more extreme cases, to around three months of use.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|title=Condensation broke my device, Apple says there's nothing they can do. \|url=https://~~www~~.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/~~20250119175742~~/https://~~www~~.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|archive-date=~~2025-01-19 \|access-date=2026-03-05 \|website=Reddit \|publisher=pavanayii~~}}</ref> Additional conditions contributing to this issue include exercise or climate/humidity levels present when wearing the headphones. Apple has historically treated the AirPods Max condensation issues as "Liquid Damage", voiding warranties and likely prompting a $300 to $500 replacement.<ref name=":3" />		Many Apple AirPods Max owners have reported moisture issues with the headphones. More specifically, after around 30 or more minutes of use, users have reported a visible buildup of moisture near the speakers of the ear-cups.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=jehdian \|title=Condensation in the AirPods Max \|url=https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252267540 \|website=[[Apple]] \|date=4 Jan 2021 \|access-date=5 Mar 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/aNx9b \|archive-date=9 Apr 2026}}</ref> Depending on the severity of the moisture buildup present, the headphones could fail between five days of use in the more extreme cases, to around three months of use.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|author=pavanayii \|title=Condensation broke my device, Apple says there's nothing they can do. \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|website=[[Reddit]] \|date=17 Jan 2022 \|access-date= \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117141941/https://old.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|archive-date=17 Jan 2022}}</ref> Additional conditions contributing to this issue include exercise or climate and humidity levels present when wearing the headphones. Apple has historically treated the AirPods Max condensation issues as "Liquid Damage", voiding warranties and likely prompting a $300 to $500 replacement.<ref name=":3" />

	The AirPods Max moisture issue has been reported thousands of times to Apple and it is very likely that Apple is aware of the issue. Apple has not provided an official statement, warranty exemption, or additional replacement discount for this product.{{Citation needed\|date=4 Apr 2026}}		The AirPods Max moisture issue has been reported thousands of times to Apple and it is very likely that Apple is aware of the issue. Apple has not provided an official statement, warranty exemption, or additional replacement discount for this product.{{Citation needed\|date=4 Apr 2026}}

	===Connection security vulnerability (''2025'')===		===Connection security vulnerability (''2025'')===

SinexTitan: update

2026-04-06T09:14:39Z

update

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:14, 6 April 2026
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	==Incidents==		==Incidents==
			This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents related to this product line. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{PAGENAME}}\|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

	~~The following~~ is a list of ~~major~~ incidents ~~involving~~ the ~~Apple AirPods line of headphones~~.
	<!-- this text was originally what I had here, it contains some links that aren't cited, doesn't really matter though, just in case it's needed.		<!-- this text was originally what I had here, it contains some links that aren't cited, doesn't really matter though, just in case it's needed.

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	==References==		==References==
	~~<references />~~		{{reflist}}
	[[Category:Airpods]]		[[Category:Airpods]]
	~~[[Category:Apple]]~~

Sojourna at 23:30, 4 April 2026

2026-04-04T23:30:07Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:30, 4 April 2026
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	{{Cleanup}}		{{Cleanup}}
	{{ProductLineCargo		{{ProductLineCargo
	\| ReleaseYear = 2016~~-12-13~~		\|ReleaseYear=13 December 2016
	\| Website = https://apple.com/airpods		\|Website=https://apple.com/airpods
	\| Logo = AirPods logo.svg		\|Logo=AirPods logo.svg
	\|ArticleType=ProductLine		\|ArticleType=ProductLine
	\|Category=Wireless earbuds		\|Category=Wireless earbuds
	\|Company=Apple		\|Company=Apple
	\|Description= AirPods are wireless earbuds designed by Apple.		\|Description= AirPods are wireless earbuds designed by Apple.
	\|InProduction=Yes}}		\|InProduction=Yes
			}}

	'''AirPods''' are wireless earbuds designed by [[Apple]]. They first debuted on September 07, 2016 alongside the iPhone 7 and were released on December 13, 2016.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web \|date=7 Sep 2016 \|title=Apple reinvents the wireless headphone with AirPods \|url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044455/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ \|archive-date=2026-01-04 \|access-date=24 Nov 2025 \|website=Apple}}</ref>		'''AirPods''' are wireless earbuds designed by [[Apple]]. They first debuted on September 07, 2016 alongside the iPhone 7 and were released on December 13, 2016.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web \|date=7 Sep 2016 \|title=Apple reinvents the wireless headphone with AirPods \|url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044455/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2016/09/apple-reinvents-the-wireless-headphones-with-airpods/ \|archive-date=2026-01-04 \|access-date=24 Nov 2025 \|website=Apple}}</ref>

	==Consumer impact summary==		==Consumer impact summary==
			{{Ph-C-CIS}}
	===Repairability===		===Repairability===

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	====Replacement over repair====		====Replacement over repair====
	[[File:~~Airpods-pro-~~3~~-carepricecomparison~~.png\|alt=an image depicting the price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.\|thumb\|Price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.]]		[[File:Apple AirPods Pro 3 AppleCare price comparison.png\|alt=an image depicting the price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.\|thumb\|Price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.]]
	Apple has a dedicated portal to purchase "battery service", which involves destroying outer parts,<ref name=":1" /> and replacements individual AirPods and charging cases. The replacement of one or both AirPods or the charging case has a lower price with AppleCare+ than without. Apple offers battery servicing for free with AppleCare+ and for a fee without.<ref name=":2" />{{Citation needed\|reason=Add 3rd party citation\|date=4 Apr 2026}}		Apple has a dedicated portal to purchase "battery service", which involves destroying outer parts,<ref name=":1" /> and replacements individual AirPods and charging cases. The replacement of one or both AirPods or the charging case has a lower price with AppleCare+ than without. Apple offers battery servicing for free with AppleCare+ and for a fee without.<ref name=":2" />{{Citation needed\|reason=Add 3rd party citation\|date=4 Apr 2026}}

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	==Incidents==		==Incidents==


	The following is a list of major incidents involving the Apple AirPods line of headphones.		The following is a list of major incidents involving the Apple AirPods line of headphones.
	<!-- this text was originally what I had here, it contains some links that aren't cited, doesn't really matter though, just in case it's needed.		<!-- this text was originally what I had here, it contains some links that aren't cited, doesn't really matter though, just in case it's needed.
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	===AirPods Max moisture issue (''2021'')===		===AirPods Max moisture issue (''2021'')===
	Main ~~Article: [[~~AirPods Max Moisture Issue]][[File:Airpods-max-moisture.jpeg\|alt=A photo showing the moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's Headphones after exercising on an indoor bike. \|thumb\|Moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's AirPods Max after exercising on an indoor bike.]]		{{Main\|AirPods Max Moisture Issue}}
			[[File:Airpods-max-moisture.jpeg\|alt=A photo showing the moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's Headphones after exercising on an indoor bike. \|thumb\|Moisture buildup inside user PatrikGustafsson's AirPods Max after exercising on an indoor bike.]]
	Many Apple AirPods Max owners have reported moisture issues with the headphones. More specifically, after around 30 or more minutes of use, users have reported a visible buildup of moisture near the speakers of the ear-cups.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2021-01-04 \|title=Condensation in the Airpods Max \|url=https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252267540?sortBy=rank \|access-date=2026-03-05 \|website=Apple Community}}</ref> Depending on the severity of the moisture buildup present, the headphones could fail between five days of use in the more extreme cases, to around three months of use.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|title=Condensation broke my device, Apple says there's nothing they can do. \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250119175742/https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|archive-date=2025-01-19 \|access-date=2026-03-05 \|website=Reddit \|publisher=pavanayii}}</ref> Additional conditions contributing to this issue include exercise or climate/humidity levels present when wearing the headphones. Apple has historically treated the AirPods Max condensation issues as "Liquid Damage", voiding warranties and likely prompting a $300 to $500 replacement.<ref name=":3" />		Many Apple AirPods Max owners have reported moisture issues with the headphones. More specifically, after around 30 or more minutes of use, users have reported a visible buildup of moisture near the speakers of the ear-cups.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2021-01-04 \|title=Condensation in the Airpods Max \|url=https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252267540?sortBy=rank \|access-date=2026-03-05 \|website=Apple Community}}</ref> Depending on the severity of the moisture buildup present, the headphones could fail between five days of use in the more extreme cases, to around three months of use.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web \|title=Condensation broke my device, Apple says there's nothing they can do. \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250119175742/https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/s64ztx/condensation_broke_my_device_apple_says_theres/ \|archive-date=2025-01-19 \|access-date=2026-03-05 \|website=Reddit \|publisher=pavanayii}}</ref> Additional conditions contributing to this issue include exercise or climate/humidity levels present when wearing the headphones. Apple has historically treated the AirPods Max condensation issues as "Liquid Damage", voiding warranties and likely prompting a $300 to $500 replacement.<ref name=":3" />

Reform: Wording fix

2026-04-04T14:39:26Z

Wording fix

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:39, 4 April 2026
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	==Consumer impact summary==		==Consumer impact summary==

	=== Repairability ===		===Repairability===

	==== Obsolescense ====		====Obsolescense====
	AirPods are designed in a way that makes them unrepairable, leading to customers having to buy a new pair after a few years of use. Apple can replace them but will not repair them or help you do it yourself.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web \|last=Brown \|first=Dalvin \|date=20 Apr 2023 \|title=Apple Doesn’t Repair AirPods. Here’s Why. \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE \|archive-date=2026-02-02 \|access-date=24 Nov 2025 \|website=Youtube \|publisher=Wall Street Journal}}</ref> According to an expert from iFixit:<blockquote>If you want to take this apart, non-destructively, to replace the batteries, as far as I know, that's impossible.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>The rechargeable batteries in AirPods can experience fast-tracked degradation after a certain number of battery cycles,<ref name=":1" /> with two-year-old sets lasting for less than half of the advertised five hours.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Elalj \|first=Simo \|date=2024-04-16 \|title=How Long Do AirPods Last? (Battery & Lifespan) \|url=https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723215441/https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan \|archive-date=2025-07-23 \|access-date=2026-02-20 \|website=RefurbMe}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web \|title=Apple Service and Repair for AirPods \|url=https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260220050147/https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service \|archive-date=2026-02-20 \|access-date=2026-02-20 \|website=Apple}}</ref>		AirPods are designed in a way that makes them unrepairable, leading to customers having to buy a new pair after a few years of use. Apple can replace them but will not repair them or help you do it yourself.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web \|last=Brown \|first=Dalvin \|date=20 Apr 2023 \|title=Apple Doesn’t Repair AirPods. Here’s Why. \|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=omMPJEoZGJE \|archive-date=2026-02-02 \|access-date=24 Nov 2025 \|website=Youtube \|publisher=Wall Street Journal}}</ref> According to an expert from iFixit:<blockquote>If you want to take this apart, non-destructively, to replace the batteries, as far as I know, that's impossible.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>The rechargeable batteries in AirPods can experience fast-tracked degradation after a certain number of battery cycles,<ref name=":1" /> with two-year-old sets lasting for less than half of the advertised five hours.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Elalj \|first=Simo \|date=2024-04-16 \|title=How Long Do AirPods Last? (Battery & Lifespan) \|url=https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723215441/https://www.refurb.me/blog/how-long-do-airpods-last-battery-lifespan \|archive-date=2025-07-23 \|access-date=2026-02-20 \|website=RefurbMe}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web \|title=Apple Service and Repair for AirPods \|url=https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260220050147/https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair?services=service \|archive-date=2026-02-20 \|access-date=2026-02-20 \|website=Apple}}</ref>

	==== Replacement over repair ====		====Replacement over repair====
	[[File:Airpods-pro-3-carepricecomparison.png\|alt=an image depicting the price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.\|thumb\|Price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.]]		[[File:Airpods-pro-3-carepricecomparison.png\|alt=an image depicting the price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.\|thumb\|Price difference between normal Apple service and AppleCare service.]]
	Apple has a dedicated portal to ~~buy~~ "battery service", which involves destroying outer parts,<ref name=":1" /> and ~~purchase replacement~~ individual AirPods and charging cases. The replacement of one or both AirPods or the charging case has a lower price with AppleCare+ than without. Apple offers battery servicing for free with AppleCare+ and for a fee without.<ref name=":2" />{{Citation needed\|reason=Add 3rd party citation\|date=4 Apr 2026}}		Apple has a dedicated portal to purchase "battery service", which involves destroying outer parts,<ref name=":1" /> and replacements individual AirPods and charging cases. The replacement of one or both AirPods or the charging case has a lower price with AppleCare+ than without. Apple offers battery servicing for free with AppleCare+ and for a fee without.<ref name=":2" />{{Citation needed\|reason=Add 3rd party citation\|date=4 Apr 2026}}

	=== Freedom ===		===Freedom===

	==== Proprietary standards ====		====Proprietary standards====
	Up until September 22, 2023, Apple used their proprietary Lightning connector on the AirPods' charging case, which forced the consumer to purchase Apple-licensed chargers.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Borresen \|first=Jennifer \|date=22 Sep 2023 \|title=iPhone 15 pro uses USB-C charger: An exploration of how Apple got here \|url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044745/https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ \|archive-date=2026-01-04 \|access-date=24 Nov 2025 \|website=USA Today}}</ref>		Up until September 22, 2023, Apple used their proprietary Lightning connector on the AirPods' charging case, which forced the consumer to purchase Apple-licensed chargers.<ref>{{Cite web \|last=Borresen \|first=Jennifer \|date=22 Sep 2023 \|title=iPhone 15 pro uses USB-C charger: An exploration of how Apple got here \|url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260104044745/https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2023/09/22/iphone-15-pro-usb-c-charger-explained/70916655007/ \|archive-date=2026-01-04 \|access-date=24 Nov 2025 \|website=USA Today}}</ref>

	==== Degraded operating system choice ====		====Degraded operating system choice====
	The [[Software-gating\|software-gated]] features that AirPods are marketed with are mode to only work with Apple's [[wikipedia:Operating_system\|operating systems]], resulting in device's capabilities that are on par with basic wireless headphones when paired with non-Apple devices.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=Thomas \|first=Christian \|date=2025-03-26 \|title=Don't use AirPods with Android \|url=https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250407044828/https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ \|archive-date=2025-04-07 \|access-date=2026-01-05 \|website=SOUNDGUYS}}</ref> The software-gated features include:		The [[Software-gating\|software-gated]] features that AirPods are marketed with are mode to only work with Apple's [[wikipedia:Operating_system\|operating systems]], resulting in device's capabilities that are on par with basic wireless headphones when paired with non-Apple devices.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web \|last=Thomas \|first=Christian \|date=2025-03-26 \|title=Don't use AirPods with Android \|url=https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250407044828/https://www.soundguys.com/dont-use-airpods-android-20767/ \|archive-date=2025-04-07 \|access-date=2026-01-05 \|website=SOUNDGUYS}}</ref> The software-gated features include:

	* Spatial audio		*Spatial audio
	* The ear tip fit test		*The ear tip fit test
	* Auto EQ		*Auto EQ
	* Control customization		*Control customization
	* Find my earbuds		*Find my earbuds
	* Automatic device switching		*Automatic device switching
	* Conversation boost		*Conversation boost
	* Battery life status indicator		*Battery life status indicator
	* Automatic ear detection<ref name=":4" />		*Automatic ear detection<ref name=":4" />

	However there have been projects attempting to regain marketed features of AirPods with non-Apple products, such as LibrePods.<ref>https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251220145417/https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods Archived])</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Hardwick \|first=Tim \|date=2025-11-21 \|title=This Free App Unlocks AirPods Features on Android Devices \|url=https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251218044102/https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ \|archive-date=18 Dec 2025\|access-date=2026-02-02 \|website=MacRumors}}</ref>		However there have been projects attempting to regain marketed features of AirPods with non-Apple products, such as LibrePods.<ref>https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251220145417/https://github.com/cysgodi/librepods Archived])</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Hardwick \|first=Tim \|date=2025-11-21 \|title=This Free App Unlocks AirPods Features on Android Devices \|url=https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251218044102/https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/librepods-unlocks-airpods-features-android/ \|archive-date=18 Dec 2025\|access-date=2026-02-02 \|website=MacRumors}}</ref>

Reform: Added a list of software-gated features, changed some headings, and removed bold as that is not aligned with wiki style guide, and added a bunch of citation needed markers

2026-04-04T14:36:52Z

Added a list of software-gated features, changed some headings, and removed bold as that is not aligned with wiki style guide, and added a bunch of citation needed markers

Show changes

178.114.189.75: AirPods Pro Sound Issue (2020-) added cite

2026-04-02T19:11:03Z

AirPods Pro Sound Issue (2020-) added cite

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:11, 2 April 2026
Line 44:		Line 44:

	https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 -->		https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 -->
	=== '''AirPods Pro Sound Issue''' '''(2020-)''' ===		==='''AirPods Pro Sound Issue''' '''(2020-)'''===
	The "Rattlegate" issue—officially known as the '''AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues'''—was one of the most frustrating chapters for early AirPods Pro adopters. It essentially turned premium earbuds into high-priced maracas.		The "Rattlegate" issue—officially known as the '''AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues'''—was one of the most frustrating chapters for early AirPods Pro adopters. It essentially turned premium earbuds into high-priced maracas.

	The problem primarily affected the '''first-generation AirPods Pro'''. Users reported:		The problem primarily affected the '''first-generation AirPods Pro'''. Users reported:

	* '''Crackling or static sounds''' that intensified in loud environments, during exercise, or while talking on the phone.		*'''Crackling or static sounds''' that intensified in loud environments, during exercise, or while talking on the phone.
	* '''Rattling noises''' triggered by head movement or footsteps.		*'''Rattling noises''' triggered by head movement or footsteps.
	* '''Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) failure''', resulting in a loss of bass or an increase in background noise (like street or airplane sounds).		*'''Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) failure''', resulting in a loss of bass or an increase in background noise (like street or airplane sounds).

	Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in '''October 2020'''. ~~Apple~~ determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured '''before October 2020''' were defective. They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. In late 2021, Apple quietly extended this to '''three years'''.		Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in '''October 2020'''. <ref>{{Cite web \|date=2020-10-30 \|title=AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues \|url=https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604082736/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|archive-date=2022-06-04 \|access-date=}}</ref> determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured '''before October 2020''' were defective. They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. In late 2021, Apple quietly extended this to '''three years'''.

	Despite Apple’s claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the '''exact same rattling and crackling.''' Because Apple’s internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed," these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard 1-year warranty (or 2-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.		Despite Apple’s claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the '''exact same rattling and crackling.''' Because Apple’s internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed," these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard 1-year warranty (or 2-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.

178.114.189.75: Added Airpods Pro Sound Issue

2026-04-02T19:00:22Z

Added Airpods Pro Sound Issue

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:00, 2 April 2026
Line 44:		Line 44:

	https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 -->		https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-27867 -->
			=== '''AirPods Pro Sound Issue''' '''(2020-)''' ===
			The "Rattlegate" issue—officially known as the '''AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues'''—was one of the most frustrating chapters for early AirPods Pro adopters. It essentially turned premium earbuds into high-priced maracas.

			The problem primarily affected the '''first-generation AirPods Pro'''. Users reported:

			* '''Crackling or static sounds''' that intensified in loud environments, during exercise, or while talking on the phone.
			* '''Rattling noises''' triggered by head movement or footsteps.
			* '''Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) failure''', resulting in a loss of bass or an increase in background noise (like street or airplane sounds).

			Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in '''October 2020'''. Apple determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured '''before October 2020''' were defective. They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. In late 2021, Apple quietly extended this to '''three years'''.

			Despite Apple’s claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the '''exact same rattling and crackling.''' Because Apple’s internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed," these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard 1-year warranty (or 2-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.

			Many experts believe the issue was a fundamental design flaw in the first-gen hardware (likely related to glue degradation or sweat ingress affecting the internal microphones) rather than a specific "bad batch." As of 2026, the service program has officially ended for the vast majority of users because the "three years from date of sale" window has expired for almost everyone who owned the original Gen 1 model. Because of the refusal to cover units made after 2020 and the fact that many "replacement" units eventually failed too, Apple has faced several class-action lawsuits (notably ''LaBella v. Apple Inc.''). These suits allege that Apple continued to sell a defective product and misled consumers about the "fix."

	===AirPods Max Moisture Issue (2021)===		===AirPods Max Moisture Issue (2021)===

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:16, 15 April 2026
Line 58:		Line 58:
	Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in October 2020, and determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured ''before'' October 2020 were defective.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=		Apple officially acknowledged the hardware defect in October 2020, and determined that a "small percentage" of units manufactured ''before'' October 2020 were defective.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=
	\|title=AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues \|url=https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|website=[[Apple]] \|date=30 Oct 2020 \|access-date= \|url-status=dead		\|title=AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues \|url=https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|website=[[Apple]] \|date=30 Oct 2020 \|access-date= \|url-status=dead
	\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604082736/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|archive-date=4 Jun 2022}}</ref> They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. On 1 October 2021,<ref>{{Cite web \|author= \|title=Comparison between captures taken 1 October 2021 and 2 October 2021 on the Wayback Machine \|url=https://web.archive.org/web/diff/20211001134456/20211002135152/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues ~~\|website=[[Internet Archive]] \|date= \|access-date=9 Apr 2026~~ \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://consumerrights.wiki/w/~~File:~~Wayback_Machine_comparison_tool_Oct_2021_for_AirPods.png \|archive-date=9 Apr 2026}}</ref> Apple quietly extended this to ''three years''.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=matejamm1 \|title=PSA: Apple silently extended the AirPods Pro Service Program for an additional year, now covering AirPods that crackle for 3 years in total after first sale. \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|website=[[Reddit]] \|date=13 Oct 2021 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260410012435/https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|archive-date=10 Apr 2026}}</ref>		\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604082736/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|archive-date=4 Jun 2022}}</ref> They launched a global service program to replace affected earbuds (left, right, or both) free of charge, provided they passed a diagnostic test at an Apple Store or authorized provider. Originally, the program covered units for two years after their first retail sale. On 1 October 2021,<ref>{{Cite web \|author= \|date= \|title=Comparison between captures taken 1 October 2021 and 2 October 2021 on the Wayback Machine \|url=https://web.archive.org/web/diff/20211001134456/20211002135152/https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://megalodon.jp/2026-0416-0104-53/https://consumerrights.wiki:443/images/b/bc/Wayback_Machine_comparison_tool_Oct_2021_for_AirPods.png \|archive-date=15 Apr 2026 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|website=[[Internet Archive]]}}</ref> Apple quietly extended this to ''three years''.<ref>{{Cite web \|author=matejamm1 \|title=PSA: Apple silently extended the AirPods Pro Service Program for an additional year, now covering AirPods that crackle for 3 years in total after first sale. \|url=https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|website=[[Reddit]] \|date=13 Oct 2021 \|access-date=9 Apr 2026 \|url-status=live \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260410012435/https://old.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/q7kov9/psa_apple_silently_extended_the_airpods_pro/ \|archive-date=10 Apr 2026}}</ref>

	Despite Apple's claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the ''exact same'' rattling and crackling. Because Apple's internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed", these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard one-year warranty (or two-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.{{Citation needed\|date=4 Apr 2026}}		Despite Apple's claim that only units made before October 2020 were affected, a significant number of users who bought AirPods Pro in 2021 and 2022 reported the ''exact same'' rattling and crackling. Because Apple's internal database marks units manufactured after October 2020 as "fixed", these serial numbers are ineligible for the free service program. If you are outside of your standard one-year warranty (or two-year AppleCare+ window), Apple's official stance is usually to charge a "repair" fee that often costs as much as a new pair.{{Citation needed\|date=4 Apr 2026}}