Can Your AirPods’ Batteries Be Replaced When They Die?

When Apple first launched AirPods in 2016, everybody marveled at their design. They looked minimalist, attractive, and slim. There also were no other headphones matching their quality within the same price range. But one thing that was continuously an issue was their battery life. In particular, what can consumers do when the battery on their AirPods draws its last breath?

Find out in the article below.

The Issue with the AirPods Battery

Although they’re of good quality, an AirPod battery isn’t immortal. Just as the battery on the iPhone can die, so can the one in your AirPods. So, when it starts dying, it’s only natural for consumers to believe they can replace it.

But the major issue is that the battery on AirPods isn’t replaceable. “Why?” you might ask. Well, because of the design. Since AirPods are glued, there’s no way to replace the battery without damaging the sticks.

You can go to the Genius Store at Apple and ask to have the battery replaced. Most likely, you’ll get a negative answer.

Yet another problem is the speed with which the battery life reduces. Of course, this will depend on several factors. If you leave AirPods on a table when you aren’t using them, the battery will slowly start to drain. Use them to receive calls and the battery life will reduce rapidly as well. So, does that mean AirPod users can’t do anything to extend their battery life? Well, there’s a way around this problem. Let’s find out below.

The Options

Fortunately, not all is lost. If the battery on your AirPods is ailing, there are a couple of options. First, those who’ve had their AirPods for less than a year are in luck. If you’re one of them and your battery doesn’t last for more than five hours, go to the Apple Store to have your AirPods replaced with a new pair. What’s the catch? There isn’t one. You’ll get a new pair for free.

Another option is to buy an AppleCare + warranty for $29 when purchasing AirPods. Previously, the warranty lasted for one year, which many people felt wasn’t a long enough period. Although the current two years still isn’t enough, it’s at least something.

But, if you haven’t got AppleCare, what then? Well, there’s a magic phrase you can use when you go to the Apple Store. When the battery on AirPods gives up the ghost, ask for “battery service.” You’ll be able to replace your old AirPods for $49 each.

What if one of the batteries dies and the other is still in good condition? Even in that scenario, the sound quality of the one still working will still most likely be significantly reduced. Therefore, there’s no point in replacing just one of the AirPods. Keep in mind that $49 each is the cost of the AirPods sticks only. It doesn’t include replacing the case.

Why is it so expensive to replace the batteries on AirPods, particularly when replacing a battery on the iPhone is $49 (when it’s out of warranty)? The reason is simple. Because the AirPods are glued together, there isn’t an option to replace just the battery for a fraction of a price. Therefore, “battery service” is a code at Apple Store for replacing the old set of AirPods for new ones. Essentially, users get a brand new headset for $61 less.

Improving the Battery Life on AirPods

AirPods are a pricey investment, which is why it’s important to maintain and even improve their battery life. How can users do that? Follow these steps to extend the battery life of AirPods.

Keep AirPods in Their Case

It might seem like an obvious solution, yet some users still don’t follow it. Storing AirPods in their case whenever you’re not using them will ensure the battery lasts longer. Plus, it’ll keep them secured and protect them from damages. Finally, leaving your AirPods out the case increases the risk of you losing your precious sticks.

Avoid Extreme Temperature Differences

Exposing AirPods to extremely hot or cold temperatures can significantly damage their battery life. This doesn’t mean you mustn’t wear them out on a hot summer day or not use them while taking a walk during a snowfall. But avoid leaving them in direct sunlight and freezing environment.

Turn Off Noise Cancellation

Noise cancellation is one of the best features of AirPods. It allows you to focus on the music and work without being disturbed by sounds in the immediate environment. However, it also tends to drain the battery a lot. For that reason, it’s better to turn off this option. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Grab your iPhone and head over to “Settings.” Then, hit “Bluetooth.”
2. Find the option for AirPods.
3. Look for “Noise Control” and select “Off.”

Lower the Volume

We’ve all been guilty of turning up the volume when our favorite song comes on. But doing so daily can affect the battery life of AirPods. For that reason, try not to listen to music or a podcast at the highest volume.

Replacing Dead Batteries

AirPods combine both style and functionality, but they lack a critical feature – the replaceable battery. Although there’s a way to solve the issue of a weakened battery, it’s still a pricey option.

But if you have a valid warranty, you don’t have to worry about spending extra money.

How about you? Has the battery on your AirPods ever died? What did you do? Let us know in the comments section below.