Apple has identified a hardware problem with a “small percentage” of AirPods Pro manufactured before October 2020. If you have an affected unit, one or both of the following symptoms will be observed:
- 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 plane noise
The company has started a service programme for affected headphones that is valid for two years from the time of purchase.
European consumer law requires retailers to repair or replace products with problems due to manufacturing or design defects free of charge for three years after purchase, but Apple’s replacement programme makes it easier to get your claim through as you do not have to convince the company that the headphone defect is built in. And you do not have to go through the store if you bought it from someone other than Apple.
If only one of the two headphones shows symptoms, Apple will replace it.
Back in May, Apple rolled out a software update for the AirPods Pro after noise cancellation issues were spotted. This problem is evidently not fixable via software.
For help dealing with the product’s most common problem, read How to fix AirPods disconnecting from iPhone. For the latest bargains, browse our guide to the best AirPods deals.
For more information read: Apple is recalling faulty AirPods Pro.
This article originally appeared on Macworld Sweden. Translation by David Price.