Apparently there was something to all those complaints about active noise cancellation in AirPods Pro. Apple just launched a program to replace defective AirPods Pro earbuds that have audio problems, including sucky ANC.
In a document titled “AirPods Pro Service Program for Sound Issues,” the company acknowledged that “a small percentage of AirPods Pro may experience sound issues.”
The bum earbuds, manufactured prior to October 2020, “may exhibit one or more of the following behaviors,” Apple said in its support bulletin:
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 airplane noise
The high-end wireless earbuds, which retail for $249, deliver active noise cancellation in a small package. Their upgraded design streamlines the look of the original AirPods, thanks to shortened stems and a slight curve. The pro buds (like the second-gen “amateur” AirPods) also pack Apple’s latest H1 wireless chip, which speeds Bluetooth connection.
Like the original AirPods, the pro model became a hit after its launch in October 2019. However, some users complained about that an early firmware update ruined the AirPods Pro’s noise cancellation feature. In May, Apple issued another firmware update that supposedly fixed crackly audio. Apparently that didn’t end all AirPods Pro audio problems, though.
How to get faulty AirPods Pro replaced
If your AirPods Pro don’t work properly, relief is finally here. Just make an appointment to take them to an Apple store or find an Apple Authorized Service Provider. If one or both earbuds is defective, you’ll get a free replacement.
Apple says this worldwide replacement program does not extend the AirPods Pro warranty. However, it does cover AirPods Pro for up to two years after their retail sale date.
