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Apple offers battery replacement and repair options for AirPods, extending their lifespan
Key points
- Apple replaces AirPods for battery service, not individual battery components.
- Battery replacement costs $49 per earbud for most AirPods, $79 for AirPods Max.
- AppleCare or warranty may cover free battery replacements.
- Replacements for lost earbuds or cases are available at varying costs.
Extending AirPods Lifespan
Instead of discarding old AirPods, users can opt for battery replacement services to extend their usability. Apple discourages disposing of AirPods due to their internal lithium-ion batteries. These services can make older AirPods suitable as backups or for gifting.
Apple's Battery Replacement Process
Apple does not open AirPods to replace individual batteries. Instead, the company recycles the old AirPods and provides new ones at a reduced price. For most AirPods models, a battery replacement costs $49 per earbud, totaling $98 for a pair. For AirPods Max, the cost is $79. This is significantly less than buying new AirPods Pro at $249 or AirPods Max at $549.
Warranty and AppleCare Coverage
AirPods covered by AppleCare may be eligible for a free battery replacement if the battery capacity drops below 80% of its original performance. Additionally, if a battery fails while the AirPods are still under warranty, Apple will replace them without charge. Some independent repair shops offer battery replacement, but this involves physically altering the earbuds, which can compromise their appearance and water/sweat resistance.
Replacing Lost Components
Apple also provides replacement services for lost individual earbuds or charging cases. The cost for these replacements varies by model. For AirPods Pro, a new earbud costs $89 and a new case costs $99. For standard AirPods, a single earbud replacement is $69, and a charging case replacement ranges from $59 to $79.
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Reporting from
Apple provides battery replacement services for AirPods, where users receive new earbuds at a reduced cost instead of having batteries replaced in their existing units. This service is available for $49 per earbud for most models, or $79 for AirPods Max, offering a more affordable alternative to purchasing new devices. Apple also offers replacements for lost earbuds or charging cases, with prices varying by model.