Users have been reporting problems with the Apple AirPods Pro for months, and the problem has been widespread since Apple took action – launching a free reinstall program for premium earphones.
When Apple offers these free repairs or replaces programs from time to time, it’s the first time we’ve seen an AirPods line when it’s found that there is a real manufacturing problem that affects its hardware performance or reliability.
According to the AirPods Pro service program for the Sound, Issues support page, “a small percentage” of AirPods Pro models experience audio glitches. Any units manufactured before October 2020 will be affected.
Apple says “cracking or static sounds” appear in your ears when you exercise or when you talk on the phone and grow louder in the environment. Additionally, the Active Noise Cancellation feature may not work by losing bass or increasing background noise.
Two-year window Program
As always with these types of programs, you can return your AirPods Pro to the Apple Store or to the repair shop that Apple officially authorizes to repair. After testing, if your earphones are found to be defective, they will be replaced.
One or two earphones can be replaced if a problem develops, but apparently, the AirPods Pro case is not affected, so you do not need a new one. Any replacement will not affect your warranty.
Your AirPods Pro will be protected by the program for two years after you purchase, so you will not hear anything unusual right now but will understand if anything develops later. For instructions on obtaining a replacement, see the Support Document.
While it does not share any technical details with the wider world, the October 2020 forecast indicates that Apple has identified the problem and resolved it. However, it is comforting to know that you can replace your earphones even if they do not work.
