Discover the secrets to maximizing your AirPods' battery life and lifespan with our detailed guide. Learn how to protect your investment and enjoy better performance.
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| Photo by Ethan Rougon on Unsplash |
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Battery Life of Different AirPods Models
- The lifespan of Your AirPods
- Extending the Battery Life per Charge
- Improving the Overall Lifespan of Your AirPods
- Repairing Your AirPods
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Support Us with Amazon Affiliate Links
Introduction
Since 2017, Apple has sold nearly 200 million AirPods. Unfortunately, the lifespan of a battery is finite, and the AirPods line is notoriously challenging to repair. If you already own a pair of AirPods, making them last as long as possible is essential. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the battery life and lifespan of your AirPods and provide valuable tips for extending their performance.
Battery Life of Different AirPods Models
The battery life of your AirPods varies depending on the model, volume, usage of features, and other factors. Apple bases its battery life claims on tests performed at 50% volume, but remember that battery life degrades over time. Here's a breakdown of the expected battery life for different AirPods models:
AirPods (3rd Generation)
- Up to 6 hours of listening time (Spatial Audio turned off)
- Up to 5 hours of listening time (Spatial Audio enabled)
- Up to 4 hours of talk time
AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
- Up to 6 hours of listening time (ANC on; up to 5.5 hours with Spatial Audio and Head Tracking enabled)
- Up to 4.5 hours of talk time (ANC on)
AirPods Pro (1st Generation)
- Up to 5 hours of listening time (ANC off)
- Up to 4.5 hours of listening time (ANC on)
- Up to 3.5 hours of talk time (ANC on)
AirPods (2nd Generation)
The Lifespan of Your AirPods
Like many other wireless earbuds like the AirPods, the battery is usually the first component to fail. This makes the battery lifespan the limiting factor in how long your AirPods will last. Under optimal conditions, the lithium-ion battery inside your AirPods can retain over 80% of its initial capacity after 500 or more charge cycles, but it degrades more rapidly afterward.
Based on user reports, first and second-generation AirPods lasted for about two years of daily use until the batteries degraded to less than an hour of listening time. However, you can do a few things to get more out of each charge and slow down the batteries' decline.
Extending the Battery Life per Charge
To maximize each charge, follow these tips to conserve battery life:
- Lower the volume; your ears will thank you.
- Turn off ANC when you don't need it, as it consumes more battery power.
- Disable Spatial Audio when it's not necessary.
- Keep your AirPods and charging case clean to ensure efficient charging.
- Minimize the use of Siri and other battery-draining features.
Improving the Overall Lifespan of Your AirPods
- To help your AirPods last longer, follow these best practices:
- Store your AirPods in their charging case when not in use.
- Avoid exposing your AirPods to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight.
- Clean your AirPods and charging case regularly with a dry, lint-free cloth.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaning products on your AirPods and case.
- Update your AirPods firmware to the latest version to benefit from performance improvements.
- Use a protective case to shield the charging case from damage.
Repairing Your AirPods
Unfortunately, AirPods are difficult to repair due to their compact and sealed design. If your AirPods are under warranty or you have AppleCare+, you can take them to an Apple Store or authorized service provider for repair or replacement. Otherwise, you can purchase replacement AirPods or a charging case individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I replace the battery in my AirPods?
A: Unfortunately, AirPods batteries are not user-replaceable due to their compact design. You may need to purchase new AirPods or seek professional help if the battery is no longer holding a charge.
Q: How can I check my AirPods' battery life?
A: To check your AirPods' battery life, open the case near your iPhone or iPad, and the battery status will appear on the screen. Alternatively, you can check the battery life on your Mac by connecting your AirPods and clicking on the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar.
Q: How do I update my AirPods' firmware?
A: Your AirPods will update automatically when they're connected to your iPhone or iPad and charging. Make sure your iOS device is connected to Wi-Fi and running the latest version of iOS.
How does Apple Care + work? What about my Airpods warranty? Read more below!
"Understanding Your AirPods Warranty Coverage"
When is it time to replace your AirPods? Find out below!
Support Us with Amazon Affiliate Links
We have provided Amazon affiliate links to the different AirPods models mentioned in this article. By purchasing through these links, you help support our blog at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!