Apple Says Some AirPods Pro Have Sound Problems, Will Replace For Free

Apple said on Friday that it's replacing AirPods Pro headphones that have sound problems. CNBC reports: These problems include a static or crackling sound that increases in loud environments and issues with active noise cancellation. Apple said AirPods Pro made after October 2020 don't have the problems. Owners who experience problems can contact Apple online or make an appointment at an Apple store to get their AirPods Pro replaced for free. Only devices that are confirmed to have the issue will be replaced. The replacement applies only to the buds, not the charging case. Apple's not offering a similar program for other AirPod models.

*rubs hands with glee*

[LenKagetsu]

"By giving these people free replacements of airpods that cost us pennies to make after we fucked up we will get good press!"

Re:

[fermion]

Have you priced rare earth magnets lately. You must be one of those old guys who complain about movies costing more than a nickel.

Re:

[thegarbz]

"By giving these people free replacements of airpods that cost us pennies to make after we fucked up we will get good press!"

Good press is announcing that you honour a legal obligation to warranty your products? Jesus, what is bad press, coming to your house and kicking your dog?

Tell us WHY

[Canberra1]

Manufacturing defect? Nice to get out a scope, and reflect on the static using a tone generator. That way other defective by design products get discovered.

Re: Tell us WHY

[LaminarFlow]

Interesting, I just had mine replaced 2 days ago for this exact same issue. From what Iâ(TM)ve read, the noise canceling on the early models was too aggressive and could cause them to self destruct.

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[jhecht]

This has been going on for months, but Apple had been trying to ignore it. Search on "Rattlegate" https://mjtsai.com/blog/2020/0... [mjtsai.com]

Some airpods?

[mobby_6kl]

If by "some", they mean "all", then sure! Hopefully they replace them with something better though.

Re:

[fermion]

Mine seem to work fine. I do believe, however, that given that it is not really safe to go into a store for a diagnostic, and they are not at full capacity, they should just issue a recall. Send in your old ones, get a new or refurbished working pair. The electronics industry in general lacks regulation to insure the replace defective products.

More Apple Landfill.

[Fly Swatter]

Now Apple doesn't even get something useful out there before it goes to the landfill.

Headphones having sound problems?

[nospam007]

That's like reading glasses having transparency problems.

Online purchase requiring IN STORE visit

[Anon42Answer]

Why should I be forced to physically go to one of their stores for something I purchased online and had delivered?
Their stores are not everywhere. And many of their stores are closed.

Re: Online purchase requiring IN STORE visit

[spinitch]

Apple should offer mail in trades, especially if a visit not feasible due to location or mobility limitations. Apple has a functional trade in program that could be revised to accommodate. Assess device then if faulty issue replacement. Now TRade in just a Apple credit so they would need a new coupon or distribution process. Apple could say they are working on it but will take time. Apple service was often a superior experience helping justify the premium prices. I went for an IPX7 wireless since durability

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[tlhIngan]

Why should I be forced to physically go to one of their stores for something I purchased online and had delivered?
Their stores are not everywhere. And many of their stores are closed.

You can do it online or in store.

If you do it in store they can just replace it then and there, if you do it online it can take a week or three to get it all sorted out. I'm guessing they might do advance replacements so actual downtime is zero, but you still have to pack up the old ones for return and ensure it's on its way ba

Good news

[martinX]

I have been using Apple products since I bought an LC III and my AirPods Pro are the most finicky Apple product I have ever owned. I couldnâ(TM)t really wear them on my bike ðY because they played engine noise back to me. Then I could hear my own voice through them as well. I hope this program makes them work as they should.