Apple Opens Service Program for AirPods Pro Sound Problems
Have you noticed audio problems with your AirPods Pro? You may be able to get them replaced by Apple for free under a new service program. The company says that units manufactured before October 2020 may experience one or more of the following behaviors:
- Crackling or static sounds that increase in loud environments, with exercise, or while talking on the phone
- Active Noise Cancellation not working as expected, such as a loss of bass sound, or an increase in background sounds, such as street or airplane noise
Apple will examine the AirPods Pro to determine if they’re eligible and, if so, will replace one or both earbuds as necessary. To get started with the replacement process, contact Apple Support to arrange mail-in service to an Apple Repair Center, make an appointment with an Apple Retail Store, or contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
The AirPods Pro wireless charging case is unrelated to the problem and won’t be replaced, and the original AirPods are also unaffected.
I had my right AirPod Pro replaced under Apple Care just last week for this very problem. Now the left one is starting to show signs of it. One thing you can do to help while you wait for replacements is to turn “Noise Control” off. The problem seems to be related to the microphone, and it shows up whenever there’s an external sound, like when you speak.
I bought a pair of AirPods Pro in February 2020 and had the right bud replaced in approximately June for the crackling problem. It all went very smoothly.
I’m glad to see that the Program will extend up to two years after the purchase date as I would not be surprised to see either of my buds fail again.
And the left bud went bad this week… Replacement now on the way.