If you’re an AirPods user, you’re well aware of the convenience and quality these tiny devices offer. But like any tech, they’re not immune to issues. One common problem many AirPod owners face is the case of not charging, leaving you with unpowered AirPods and a whole lot of frustration. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in this, and more importantly, there are solutions. As a speaker technician with years of experience under my belt, I’ve encountered this issue numerous times and have some handy tips and tricks on how to fix it. I’m here to guide you through the process of troubleshooting your AirPod case charging problems. Let’s dive in.
1. Reset Your AirPods
Resetting your AirPods is the first step in troubleshooting most issues. It’s a simple process that can effectively resolve a variety of glitches. Here’s how you can do it: First, ensure your AirPods are inside their case. Next, leave the lid open and locate the small, circular button on the back of the case. Hold this button down for about 15 seconds until the interior light starts to flash white. This indicates your AirPods have reset. Afterward, reconnect your AirPods to your device and check if the charging issue persists. For most users, this step helps rectify any minor software glitches causing the charging problem.
2. Clean the Charging Port
Dirt and debris accumulated in the charging port often obstruct the connection between the AirPod case and the charging cable, leading to charging issues. The solution is simple: clean the charging port. To do this, you’ll need a soft, lint-free cloth and a toothpick or a similar non-metallic tool. First, gently wipe the charging port with the cloth to get rid of any loose dirt. Then, use the toothpick to carefully remove any stubborn debris lodged within the port. However, proceed with caution to avoid damaging the internal components. Once you’ve cleared the port, try charging your AirPod case again. Remember, maintaining a clean charging port can prevent many charging-related issues.
3. Check the Cable and Adapter
A faulty charging cable or adapter can often be the culprit behind your AirPod case not charging. To check if this is the issue, try using a different charging cable and adapter, preferably one that you know works with other devices. Plug the cable into the charging port of your AirPod case and connect it to the power source. If the case begins to charge, it’s likely that your original cable or adapter is damaged and needs replacement. If it still doesn’t charge, the issue could be more severe and might require expert attention. Remember, it’s crucial to use only Apple-certified cables and adapters to avoid potential damage to your devices.
4. Update Your Device
Outdated software can sometimes cause charging issues with your AirPod case. It’s crucial to keep your connected iPhone, iPad, or Mac updated to the latest operating system version. To do this, navigate to “Settings,” then “General,” and finally to “Software Update” on your iPhone or iPad. If an update is available, tap “Download and Install.” For Mac, go to “System Preferences,” then “Software Update.” If an update is available, click “Update Now.” After updating, connect your AirPods to your device and place them in the charging case. If the case begins to charge, an outdated software version was likely the cause of the issue. If not, you may need to explore further solutions or seek professional assistance.
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5. Check Battery Status
Checking the battery status of your AirPods and the charging case can also help troubleshoot if the case is not charging. To do this, open the lid of your AirPods case near your iPhone. A pop-up will display showing the battery levels of your AirPods and the charging case. If you do not see the charging case’s battery level, it might indicate that the case is not charging or the battery is completely depleted. You can also check the battery status by selecting “Batteries” in the Widgets view on your iPhone. If your AirPods are connected to your Mac, hover the mouse pointer over the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar to check the battery status. If the charging case’s battery level remains at a standstill or decreases over time, it might be time to contact Apple Support or a professional technician for further assistance.
6. Try Wireless Charging
If your AirPod case supports wireless charging, it is worth trying this method as a potential solution to the charging problem. To do so, position your AirPods case on a Qi-compatible charging mat with the status light facing up. The status light should show for a few seconds to indicate that your case is charging. If you have already tried this method and the case still isn’t charging, try using another Qi-compatible charger to ensure the issue isn’t with your current charging mat. If the AirPods case still isn’t charging after trying another charging mat, it would be best to seek help from Apple Support or a professional technician.
7. Close the Lid
It may sound overly simple, but make sure the lid of your AirPods case is properly closed. The design of the AirPods case enables it to start charging the moment the lid is closed. However, if the lid is not correctly closed, the case may not start charging, leading to the issue at hand. To ensure this, close the lid firmly until you hear a click sound, indicating it’s securely closed. If after properly closing the lid your AirPods case still isn’t charging, the issue might be more complex and could be related to the internal circuitry or the charging port. In such instances, contacting Apple Support or a professional technician is recommended.
8. Charge for Longer
Sometimes, your AirPods case might just need a little more time on the charger. If the battery has been completely drained, it could take up to a half-hour before you see any indication of charging. Ensure that the charging cable and adapter are properly connected and working. Plug in the case and leave it connected to the charger for at least 30 minutes to an hour. If after this duration the case is still not charging, it might be time to look into the possibility of a more serious issue, like a faulty charging port or internal circuit damage. In such a scenario, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple Support or a professional technician for help.
9. Test with Another AirPod Case
If you have another AirPods case at your disposal, you can use it to further troubleshoot the charging issue. Simply place your AirPods in the alternate case and attempt to charge them. If they charge successfully, it’s clear that the issue lies with your original AirPods case, not the AirPods themselves. This could mean a fault in the charging port, the case’s internal battery, or other internal components. In this case, it’s best to seek professional assistance, such as contacting Apple Support or an experienced technician. Bear in mind that if your AirPods aren’t charging in either case, the problem could potentially lie with the AirPods themselves, in which case, you would need to explore additional troubleshooting steps.
10. Contact Apple Support
If all else fails, your next step should be to contact Apple Support. You can reach out to them online, by phone, or by visiting an Apple Store or an authorized Apple service provider. When contacting Apple, have your AirPods’ serial number ready, as well as any relevant details about the issues you are experiencing. Apple’s team of trained professionals will help diagnose the problem and guide you on the best course of action. This could include carrying out repairs, replacing the battery or the entire case, or in some instances, replacing the AirPods themselves. Remember that if your AirPods are still under warranty, some of these services may be covered at no additional cost. However, charges may apply if your AirPods are out of warranty.
Why is This Happening
The issue at hand, the AirPod case not charging, is quite a prevalent one among many users. When this occurs, the case, which serves as the primary charging source for the AirPods, fails to replenish its power supply, subsequently leaving your AirPods without any source of recharge. This problem can manifest in several ways. You may find that the case’s charging indicator doesn’t light up when plugged in, or you might notice that despite being plugged in for an extended period, the case’s battery level doesn’t increase. This issue can be particularly disruptive, as the convenience of AirPods largely hinges on their wireless capabilities, which are rendered moot if the case cannot provide the necessary charge.
Common Reasons for AirPod Case Not Charging
1. Dirty Charging Port
One of the most common reasons for an AirPod case not charging is a dirty charging port. Dust, lint, or other debris can accumulate in the port over time and obstruct the connection between the charger and the case. This obstruction can prevent the necessary current from reaching the case, leading to charging issues. Cleaning the charging port is often a simple yet effective solution to this problem. It’s important to be cautious while cleaning to avoid causing any damage. You can use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth or a small brush designed specifically for electronics. Avoid using any liquid cleaners or sharp objects that could potentially harm the charging port. Once the port is clean, try charging the case again and check if the issue has been resolved.
2. Software issues
Software issues might also be responsible for your AirPod case not charging. The firmware that manages the charging process may become bugged, leading to issues with powering your case. An effective resolution for this is to reset your AirPods. To do this, put your AirPods back in the case, then open the lid and press and hold the setup button located at the back of your case until the status light starts flashing amber a few times and then finally flashes white. Then, re-pair your AirPods with your device. If your AirPods are still not charging, you may need to update your device to the latest operating system, as this can often resolve any firmware-related problems. Do note that these software troubleshooting methods apply to AirPod cases that have a certain level of battery left. If they’re completely dead, you’ll have to resort to other methods.
3. Faulty Charger or Cable
Another common reason for the AirPod case not charging could be a faulty charger or cable. The charger and the cable are as essential to the charging process as the charging port on the case. If the charger or the cable is damaged, the necessary electrical current won’t reach the case. One way to confirm this is to try using a different cable or charger and see if the case starts to charge. If it does, then it’s evident that the original charger or cable was the issue. Remember, it’s crucial to use only certified chargers and cables for your devices. Using uncertified or counterfeit accessories can lead to serious damage and can void your warranty.
4. Internal Battery Issues
If you’ve tried the above solutions and your AirPod case is still not charging, it could be due to internal battery issues. The battery in the AirPod case, like all rechargeable batteries, has a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. Indicators of a failing battery can include significantly reduced runtime, not charging fully, or in some cases, not charging at all. It’s important to note that attempting to replace the battery yourself can be risky and may void your warranty. If you suspect a battery issue, we recommend contacting Apple support or visiting an authorized Apple service center for professional assistance.
Conclusion
To wrap things up, if your AirPod case is not charging, several factors could be at play. It could be as simple as a dirty charging port or a faulty charger or cable. More complex issues, like internal battery failures, could also be the culprits. While some problems are easily fixable at home, others such as internal battery issues require professional attention. Do remember, using uncertified or counterfeit accessories can lead to serious damage and void your warranty. Always reach out to Apple support or an authorized service center if you’re unsure or if the issue persists. With proper care and troubleshooting, you can ensure the longevity of your AirPods and enjoy uninterrupted high-quality audio.
