Apple’s new AirPods Pro 2 just got FDA approval to double as hearing aids. But can they really pull it off? Find out what makes these earbuds more than just a great way to listen to music.
AirPods problems? Apple offering free replacements for faulty earbuds
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When it comes to the headphones you use with your smartphone, you have a ton of options. There are wired or wireless options, and some offer more bass and better sound quality for music fanatics while others focus on crystal-clear call quality instead.
There are plenty of solid headphones to choose from, but most iPhone fans overlook Samsung or Bose options and splurge on Apple AirPods or AirPods Pros instead. The wireless earbuds are a huge draw for Apple fans because they’re lightweight, easy to use and integrate seamlessly with iOS products. AirPods even have a few tricks up their sleeves — tap or click here to find out what they are.
Apple AirPods are now the most popular wireless earbuds on the market — despite the high price tag. But while original AirPods are known for reliability and solid sound quality, a few issues have surfaced with AirPods Pro since their launch in 2019. If you’re an AirPods Pro owner who’s been having problems with your headphones, Apple may replace them for you for free. Here’s why.
Apple might just replace your AirPods for free
Have you heard crackling, static, or other annoying sound issues while wearing your AirPods Pro recently? Well, you may be eligible for a new pair.
According to Apple, some AirPods Pro headphones are experiencing sound issues due to the noise-cancellation feature not working as it should. These problems are marked by crackling or static that increases in loud environments, while you’re exercising or while you’re talking on the phone.
No crackling? The issue could also surface due to Active Noise Cancellation not working as expected with your AirPods Pro. This problem can cause a loss of bass sound or an increase in background noises, such as street or airplane sounds.
The AirPods Pros that are causing issues were manufactured before Oct. 2020, according to Apple. So, if you’re hearing constant crackling and static, or you’re having issues with sound quality when you’re in loud places — and you bought your AirPods Pro headphones prior to October 2020 — you may be eligible for a replacement pair.
This isn’t the first we’ve heard about sound issues with AirPods Pros. Complaints about static and crackling have been prevalent since these upgraded AirPods hit the shelves.
Troubleshooting Apple AirPods Pro sound issues
The issue was also noted by Apple back in May. The tech giant initially added support documents on its website to help with troubleshooting advice and offered to replace the faulty units that were still under warranty.
Here are troubleshooting steps suggested by Apple:
Listen up: Soon, Apple will drop a free software update that adds a hearing test and hearing aid features to the AirPods Pro 2. Keep in mind only those with mild hearing loss can benefit from AirPods as hearing aids. You’ll also need iOS 18.1 on your iPhone or iPad for these new features to work.
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🎧 Drown out distractions on your Mac: If you’re in a loud place, turn on background sounds to mask unwanted noise. Go to Accessibility > Audio > Background Sounds > Choose, then pick from Rain, Ocean and more. Pair this with noise canceling earbuds (like the Apple AirPods Pro 2) for an even better experience.
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September is the apple of my pie: Apple’s set to show off the new iPhone 16 line, Watch Series 10 and AirPods on Sept. 10. The iPhone Pros and Watch have bigger screens, and the new AirPods look like a cross between 3rd-gen AirPods and the AirPods Pro. If you need a new iPhone (JoJo, talking to you!), just wait a little longer.