To charge your Apple earbuds (AirPods or AirPods Pro), you primarily charge the case, which in turn charges the earbuds themselves. Here's how:
1. Using a Cable:
- Locate the charging port: Find the Lightning port on the bottom of the AirPods case, or a USB-C port on newer cases (AirPods Pro 2nd generation with USB-C, AirPods (4th Generation) with USB-C.
- Connect the cable: Plug a Lightning to USB cable (for older models) or a USB-C cable (for newer models) into the charging port of the case.
- Connect to a power source: Plug the other end of the cable into a USB power adapter that's plugged into a wall outlet, or into a USB port on your computer.
- Charging Indicator: The charging status light on the case will illuminate (or blink) to indicate it's charging. For AirPods with a wireless charging case, the light is on the front of the case; for AirPods without a wireless charging case, the light is inside the case.
2. Using Wireless Charging (if applicable):
- Check for Compatibility: Ensure your AirPods case supports wireless charging. This is indicated by a small lightning bolt icon on the bottom of the case. AirPods Pro cases and some AirPods (3rd generation) cases support wireless charging.
- Place on a Wireless Charging Mat: Place the charging case with the status light facing up on a Qi-compatible wireless charging mat.
- Charging Indicator: The status light will illuminate for a few seconds, then turn off. You can check the charging status by tapping the case or opening the lid.
Important Considerations:
- Earbuds Charging: When the case is charged and your AirPods are inside, they will automatically begin charging.
- Charging Status: You can check the charging status of your AirPods and the case on your iPhone or iPad by opening the case near your device (with the AirPods inside). A popup will display the battery levels.
- Optimal Charging: Use a 5W USB power adapter or higher for optimal charging speeds.
- Battery Health: Like all rechargeable batteries, the battery capacity of your AirPods and the charging case will decrease over time.
In summary, charge your Apple earbuds by connecting the case to a power source using either a Lightning or USB-C cable, or by placing the wireless charging case on a Qi-compatible wireless charging mat. The case charges the earbuds when they are stored inside.
