If you have AirPods Pro, you know how convenient it is to charge them using the wireless charging case. But what if your case is not charging, while your AirPods are? This can be a frustrating problem that prevents you from enjoying your wireless earbuds. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you fix this issue.
Possible Reasons for AirPod Pro Case Not Charging
There are several factors that could cause your AirPod Pro case to not charge properly, while your AirPods are still charging. Some of the most common ones are:
- Faulty or damaged cable, adapter, or power source
- Dirt or debris in the Lightning port or the wireless charging pad
- Software glitches or outdated firmware
- Defective or worn-out battery or circuit board
How to Diagnose the Problem
To diagnose the problem, you need to check the following things on your AirPods Pro and the case:
- The charging status light: This is a small LED light on the front of the case that indicates the battery level and charging status. When you plug in the case or place it on a wireless charger, the light should turn on for a few seconds, then turn off while continuing to charge. If the light does not turn on at all, or flashes red, there might be a problem with the case or the charger.
- The battery percentage: You can check the battery percentage of your AirPods and the case by opening the lid and holding the case close to your iOS device. You should see a pop-up that shows the battery level of each earbud and the case. If the case shows a low battery or no battery at all, it might not be charging properly.
- The firmware version: You can check the firmware version of your AirPods by going to Settings > General > About > AirPods on your iOS device. You should see a number under Firmware Version. The latest firmware version for AirPods Pro as of August 2023 is 4A400. If your firmware is outdated, it might cause some issues with charging.
How to Fix the Problem
Depending on what you find out from diagnosing the problem, you can try some of these solutions to fix it:
- Swap out the cable, adapter, or power source: If you are using a wired charger, try using a different Lightning cable, power adapter, or wall socket. Make sure they are compatible with your AirPods Pro and in good condition. If you are using a wireless charger, try using a different Qi-compatible charger or cable. Make sure they are properly plugged in and aligned with the case.
- Clean the Lightning port or the wireless charging pad: Sometimes, dust or lint can get stuck in the Lightning port of the case or on the surface of the wireless charging pad. This can interfere with the charging connection and prevent the case from charging. To clean them, use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth or a cotton swab. Gently wipe away any dirt or debris from the port or the pad. Do not use any liquids or metal objects to clean them.
- Update the firmware: If your firmware is outdated, you might need to update it to fix some bugs or improve performance. To update the firmware, make sure your AirPods are connected to your iOS device and have at least 50% battery. Then place them in the case and plug it in. Leave them close to your iOS device and connected to Wi-Fi for at least 30 minutes. The update should happen automatically.
- Reset the connection: Sometimes, resetting the connection between your AirPods and your iOS device can solve some issues with charging. To reset the connection, go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iOS device and tap on the “i” icon next to your AirPods. Then tap on Forget This Device and confirm. Next, open the lid of your case and press and hold the setup button on the back until you see a white flashing light. Then follow the instructions on your iOS device to pair your AirPods again.
How to Get Your Case Repaired or Replaced
If none of these troubleshooting tips work, you might have a defective or damaged case that needs to be repaired or replaced. You can contact Apple Support online or by phone and explain your problem. They will guide you through some steps to determine if your case is eligible for service under warranty or out-of-warranty. You can also visit an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider and bring your case with you. They will examine it and offer you a solution.
Here is a table that summarizes some of the costs and options for repairing or replacing your AirPod Pro case:
| Service | Warranty Status | Cost | Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Service | In Warranty | Free | Apple will replace your case if it has a defective battery |
| Battery Service | Out of Warranty | $49 | Apple will replace your case if it has a consumed battery |
| Other Damage | In Warranty | Free | Apple will replace your case if it has any other damage that is covered by the warranty |
| Other Damage | Out of Warranty | $69 | Apple will replace your case if it has any other damage that is not covered by the warranty |
| Lost or Stolen | N/A | $69 | Apple will sell you a new case if you have lost or stolen your original one |
| Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Faulty cable or adapter | Try a different cable or adapter that is compatible with AirPods Pro |
| Dirty or damaged charging port | Clean the charging port with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth |
| Faulty wireless charger | Try a different Qi-compatible charger or use a cable instead |
| Low battery on the case | Charge the case for at least 15 minutes using the cable that came with your AirPods Pro |
| Software issue | Reset the case by pressing and holding the setup button for 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber and white |