Understanding Your AirPod Pro & Official Specs
| Specification Category | AirPods Pro (1st Generation) | AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) | Why This Matters for Replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Model Numbers | Earbuds: A2084 (Left), A2083 (Right) MagSafe Case: A2700 |
Earbuds: A2931 (Left), A2699 (Right) MagSafe Case: A2700 (no speaker) or A2960 (with speaker/lanyard loop) |
Critical for compatibility. A 1st Gen bud will not function with a 2nd Gen case, and vice versa. Always match model numbers. |
| Release Year & Identifier | Released 2019. Marked as “AirPods Pro”. | Released 2022. Marked as “AirPods Pro (2nd generation)”. | Helps determine age and likely warranty status. Affects software feature availability. |
| Audio & Chip | Driver: Apple-designed driver Chip: H1 chip Adaptive EQ: Yes |
Driver: New custom driver + amplifier Chip: H2 chip (enables major feature upgrades) Adaptive EQ: Yes |
The H2 chip enables superior noise cancellation and new features. Parts are not cross-compatible due to chipset differences. |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency | ANC: Yes Transparency Mode: Yes |
ANC: 2x more effective than 1st Gen Transparency Mode: Adaptive Transparency (loud noise reduction) |
If replacing a single bud for ANC issues, note that a 1st Gen bud cannot provide the enhanced ANC of the 2nd Gen. |
| Battery Life & Charging | Earbuds: Up to 4.5 hrs (ANC on) Case: Provides >24 hrs total Charging: MagSafe, Qi, Lightning |
Earbuds: Up to 6 hrs (ANC on) Case: Provides >30 hrs total Charging: MagSafe, Qi, Lightning, Apple Watch charger |
Battery performance differs. Case models (A2700 vs A2960) have different physical features but are electrically compatible for charging the buds. |
| Sweat/Water Resistance | IPX4 rating (both earbuds and case) | IPX4 rating (both earbuds and case) | Case is not water-proof. Liquid damage is a common cause of failure and is not covered by standard warranty. |
| Find My Features | Precision Finding (case only with iPhone 11+), Play Sound, Last Seen Location | Precision Finding for Case (U1 chip in case), Play Sound, Lanyard loop mount, Built-in speaker for louder locator tones | A 2nd Gen case (A2960) has significantly better findability. Replacing a 1st Gen case with a 2nd Gen case for this feature will not work. |
| Smartphone Compatibility | Requires iOS 13.2 or later, iPadOS 13.2 or later. Core features work with Android via Bluetooth. | Requires iOS 16 or later, iPadOS 16 or later. Full feature set requires Apple device. | A 2nd Gen model will not unlock its full potential with outdated iOS. Ensure your phone’s OS is updated for a replacement. |
| Key Physical Identifiers | 1. Vent on outer stem is a long, skinny oval. 2. In-Ear Detection sensor is a flush, black oval on inner stem. |
1. Vent on outer stem is a shorter, wider pill shape. 2. In-Ear Detection sensor is a small, recessed dot on inner stem. 3. Lanyard loop mounts on case (A2960 model). |
The quickest way to visually distinguish generations for a replacement, especially when buying a used single bud. |
| Primary Use Case & Advantage | The established standard for premium ANC earbuds with great Apple ecosystem integration. | The upgraded model with significantly better ANC, Transparency, audio quality, battery life, and Find My integration. | Recommendation: If replacing a major component (like both buds or the case), consider upgrading to 2nd Gen for a notable experience improvement, but all components must be swapped together. |
Step-by-Step DIY Troubleshooting & Smartphone Pairing Guide
This table guides you through a complete diagnostic and reset process using your smartphone. Follow the steps in order.
| Step | Action | Purpose & Expected Outcome | Tool/Place |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0. Preparation | Ensure your AirPods Pro case and iPhone are charged (at least 20%). | Prevents failure due to low power during the reset/pairing process. | Power source, Lightning cable. |
| 1. Visual & Physical Inspection | 1. Inspect the meshes (speaker and mic) on each AirPod for earwax/debris. 2. Check the gold charging contacts on the bottom of each AirPod and inside the case for dirt/corrosion. 3. Gently clean with a dry, soft-bristled brush (like a new toothbrush) or blue tack. Avoid liquids. |
Solves the most common issues of muffled sound, ANC failure, and charging problems. | Well-lit area, magnifying glass (optional), dry brush. |
| 2. Basic Connection Reset | 1. Place both AirPods in the case and close the lid for 30 seconds. 2. Open the lid near your iPhone. 3. On iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the ⓘ icon next to your AirPods, and select “Forget This Device”. 4. Confirm “Forget Device”. |
Clears the corrupted software connection between your iPhone and AirPods, which can fix one-sided audio, pairing failures, and controls not working. | Your paired iPhone/iPad. |
| 3. Factory Reset (Hard Reset) | 1. With AirPods in the case and lid open, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case. 2. Hold for 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber, then white. 3. Release the button. The light will continue to flash white, indicating it’s in pairing mode. |
Performs a full factory reset of the AirPods and case, clearing all paired device history. This is the most powerful software fix. | Case, setup button (on back). |
| 4. Re-pair & Test | 1. With the case lid still open and near your iPhone, a setup animation should appear on your iPhone screen. 2. Tap “Connect” and follow the prompts. 3. Test thoroughly: Play audio, switch between Noise Cancellation & Transparency modes, test in-ear detection (play/pause when removing one bud), and test charging. |
Re-establishes a fresh, clean connection and allows you to verify if the issue is resolved across all core functions. | Your iPhone, music/podcast app. |
| 5. Advanced iPhone Settings Check | If issues persist in specific modes: – For ANC/Transparency issues: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual > Headphone Accommodations. Ensure this is off to test. – For one AirPod not working: Go to Settings > Bluetooth > ⓘ > Microphone. Switch from “Automatic” to “Always Left” or “Always Right” to test each mic independently. |
Rules out software settings on the iPhone that may be interfering with or misconfiguring the AirPods’ native functions. |
Curated List of Reliable Local Studios for AirPod Pro Replacement
| Country | City/Region | Studio Name | Known For / Specialty | Service Notes & Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | Delhi NCR | iService (Apple Authorized Service Provider) | Official Apple repairs and replacements. | Uses 100% genuine Apple parts, preserves warranty. Multiple centers (Saket, Rajouri Garden). Professional but can be pricey. |
| India | Mumbai | The Apple Shop (Authorized Reseller & Service) | Official diagnostics and replacement services. | High trust factor, transparent pricing at official rates. Locations in Bandra, Andheri, Fort. |
| India | Bangalore | Imagine Apple Store (Authorized) | Apple-certified technicians for precise repairs. | Reliable for complex issues like ANC/sensor faults. Good customer service. Koramangala and Indiranagar locations. |
| India | Pan-India (Online-First) | OnSiteGo (Official Apple Partner) | Mail-in/ doorstep pickup repair service. | Convenient if no local shop. Uses Apple parts. Service quality consistent; check coverage in your area. |
| India | Chennai | Reliance Digital (Apple Authorized) | In-store Apple support at select large outlets. | Accessible option for diagnostics and to start an official replacement. |
| India | Hyderabad | Poorvika Mobile (Apple Authorized) | Multi-brand retailer with dedicated Apple service desks. | Can handle replacements; confirm part availability before visiting. |
| India | Kolkata | iPlanet (Apple Premium Reseller) | Sales and service under one roof. | Helpful for initial assessment and routing to official channels. |
| US | Nationwide | Apple Store & Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASP) | The definitive source for genuine parts and repairs. | Top choice for reliability and warranty preservation. Use Apple’s “Get Support” site to find the nearest location. |
| US | Nationwide (Mail-In) | Apple Mail-in Repair Service | Official service for areas without a physical store. | Initiated via Apple Support app/website. Ships a box to you; secure but turnaround is 5-7+ business days. |
| US | New York, NY | uBreakiFix (Partner with Asurion) | Popular chain for quick fixes on out-of-warranty devices. | Often can replace single buds/cases with quality parts. Check if location specifically handles AirPod Pros. |
| US | Los Angeles, CA | The iLab | Well-reviewed independent repair shop specializing in Apple products. | Known for skilled technicians, personalized service, and fair diagnostics for audio issues. |
| US | Chicago, IL | iRepair Chicago | Local favorite for Apple device repairs. | Good reviews for honesty and ability to source functional replacement AirPods. |
| US | San Francisco Bay Area | Cipherfix | Known for micro-soldering and complex board-level repairs. | An excellent option if standard replacement doesn’t solve a deeper electronic issue (e.g., charging failure). |
| US | Austin, TX | Austin Apple Repair | Independent shop with strong community reputation. |
Cost Comparison & Final Decision Matrix
To make your choice clear, here is a direct comparison:
| Option | Estimated Cost (Single AirPod Pro) | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official Apple Replacement | ~$89 (per bud) | Guaranteed genuine part, preserves any remaining AppleCare+ coverage, full functionality. | Highest cost, may require mailing if no store nearby. | Those with AppleCare+, or who prioritize 100% authenticity and warranty. |
| Third-Party Refurbished Part | ~$50 – $70 (as seen in source) | More affordable, can be a quick direct purchase. | Quality varies risk of pairing/issues, no Apple warranty. | Replacing a lost bud for an out-of-warranty set where cost is key. |
| Reputable Local Repair Studio | Varies by city; call for quote | Can be faster than Apple mail-in, may offer personal service. | Quality depends entirely on the specific shop’s skill and parts used. | Those who prefer in-person service and have a highly-reviewed local shop available. |
Final Recommendation:
For most users, the official Apple replacement program offers the most reliable and hassle-free outcome, especially if your device is under warranty. Use DIY troubleshooting for minor connection or charging issues. Only opt for third-party parts or local studios after careful research on their reputation for AirPod Pro-specific repairs, and when official options are not feasible.
I hope this structured guide helps you successfully navigate your AirPod Pro replacement. Would you like me to help draft a template for you to research and fill in specific local shop details for your city?