Ever wondered how old your AirPods Pro really are? Maybe you’re considering selling them, checking for warranty coverage, or just curious about their history. Knowing when your AirPods Pro were manufactured can provide valuable insights—whether it’s for resale value, warranty status, or simple peace of mind.
In this article, you’ll discover straightforward steps to pinpoint your AirPods Pro’s manufacturing date, plus helpful tips to interpret what you find. Let’s unravel your AirPods’ story together.
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How to Know When Your AirPods Pro Were Manufactured
Wondering when your AirPods Pro came off the factory line? Perhaps you bought them used, want to verify their authenticity, or you’re curious for warranty reasons. Fortunately, finding out when your AirPods Pro were manufactured is possible—and easier than you might think.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn the step-by-step process of determining your AirPods Pro’s manufacturing date, why it matters, and the best tips for AirPods owners. Let’s dive in!
How to Find Your AirPods Pro Manufacture Date: The Clear Answer
The manufacturing date for your AirPods Pro is embedded in their unique serial number. By locating this serial number and decoding it—either manually or with the help of Apple’s support tools—you can determine when your AirPods were made.
Two main approaches exist:
- Decode the Serial Number: Apple uses a coded system in serial numbers that contains production week and year information.
- Use Apple’s Online Support: Input your serial number into Apple’s coverage and support tools. Some third-party services also decode the date but use only trusted tools for privacy.
Let’s break these down in simple steps.
Step-by-Step: Checking Your AirPods Pro Manufacture Date
1. Locate Your AirPods Pro Serial Number
First, you need the serial number of your AirPods Pro. There are several ways to find it:
- On the Charging Case: Open the lid. The serial number is printed inside, often at the hinge.
- On the Retail Box: Look for the barcode label on the packaging.
- In Your Device Settings: If your AirPods Pro are paired,
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap on ‘Bluetooth’.
- Find your AirPods Pro in the device list.
- Tap the “i” icon next to them. The serial number will be listed.
2. Understand the Serial Number Format
Apple has changed its serial number formats over the years. Most recent AirPods Pro models use a 12-character alphanumeric serial number (letters and numbers).
Key Notes:
– Older AirPods serial numbers included a clear code for the manufacturing year and week.
– Newer serial numbers use a randomized format, making it harder to manually decode the exact week and year.
3. Decode the Serial Number (If Possible)
For older formats (before 2021), the 4th and 5th digits indicate the manufacturing week, and the 3rd digit shows the year.
– For instance, serial number XYYWWZZZZZZZ:
– X = Factory;
– Y = Year;
– WW = Week of the year;
– Example: If the serial number is C0LTL0XXXXXX:
– L = 2021,
– TL = 42nd week,
– So manufactured in the 42nd week of 2021.
With newer formats, manual decoding isn’t possible. The best approach is to check with Apple’s coverage checker.
4. Use Apple’s Official Tools
Since manual decoding is tricky, use Apple’s tools for confirmation:
- Go to the official Apple support or coverage verification page.
- Enter your AirPods Pro serial number.
- The info shown may include the initial “Coverage Start Date” or an estimated “Purchase Date,” which typically aligns closely with the manufacturing date.
5. Consider Third-Party Decoders (With Caution)
Some sites claim to decode AirPods serial numbers and provide manufacturing information. Use these with caution—don’t share Apple ID or other personal information. Apple’s official tools remain the safest.
Why Knowing Your Manufacture Date Matters
Understanding when your AirPods Pro were manufactured can be helpful for several reasons:
- Warranty and Service Eligibility: Apple’s one-year limited warranty and AppleCare+ coverage periods begin close to the manufacturing date if unregistered. You’ll know if your device is still eligible for coverage or repairs.
- Authentication: Verifying the manufacture date can help you spot fake AirPods. Counterfeit products often can’t provide valid serial numbers or accurate manufacture dates when queried through Apple’s system.
- Identify Service Program Eligibility: For known issues, Apple occasionally launches service programs covering certain devices based on manufacture dates. Knowing yours ensures you’re not missing out.
- Gauge Battery Health: AirPods batteries degrade over time. If your pair is over two years old, reduced battery performance is natural.
Practical Tips for AirPods Pro Owners
Navigating ownership confidently means staying proactive and informed. Here are some best practices:
Store Your Serial Number Securely
- Take a photo of the inside of your case, or jot the serial number down in a safe place.
- If you ever need support or want to resell, having this handy saves time.
Register Your AirPods Pro (If Possible)
While Apple automatically pairs devices with your Apple ID, it helps to keep purchase receipts and online registration handy for warranty or support claims.
Beware of Fake AirPods
- Always test the serial number in Apple’s official tools.
- Authentic AirPods Pro will be recognized by Apple’s site and show coverage information.
Keep Packaging or Receipts
- The original box has the serial and model numbers.
- Receipts provide proof of purchase and can clarify manufacturing-to-purchase date gaps.
Understand Warranty Terms
- Coverage typically starts on the purchase date.
- For devices bought new but manufactured much earlier, warranty terms might be less than expected if not clarified—always check with Apple.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting
Determining manufacture dates isn’t always straightforward. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Worn Printing: The serial number inside the case can wear off with use. That’s why your device settings or box are valuable backups.
- Used Devices: For second-hand AirPods Pro, verify serial numbers in Apple’s system to confirm production date and prevent buying fake or stolen items.
- Changed Serial Number Formats: If you can’t manually decode your serial, you’re not alone. It’s normal for newer AirPods.
- No Coverage Information Found: If Apple’s checker doesn’t recognize your serial, you may have a non-genuine product or a typo.
Best Practices to Prolong AirPods Pro Life
Now that you know your AirPods Pro’s age, keep them working longer with these habits:
- Clean Regularly: Remove earwax and debris gently from the earbuds and charging case.
- Store Properly: Always return your AirPods Pro to their case when not in use.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Heat and cold degrade batteries quickly.
- Charge Appropriately: Avoid leaving your AirPods Pro discharged for long periods.
- Update Firmware: Connect regularly to your iPhone/iPad to ensure the latest firmware updates are applied automatically.
Summing Up
Finding out when your AirPods Pro were manufactured isn’t just for the curious—it’s vital for warranty, authenticity, and buyer confidence. By using your serial number and Apple’s support resources, you can uncover your AirPods’ origins and make informed decisions about care, repairs, and resale.
Stay vigilant by keeping your device’s information safe, checking for warranties, and putting into practice simple habits to protect your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I find the serial number on my AirPods Pro if I’ve lost the box?
If you’ve lost the outer box, open the charging case and look inside the lid; the serial number is printed there. Alternatively, with your AirPods Pro connected to your iOS device, navigate to Settings → Bluetooth, select your AirPods Pro, and you’ll see the serial number listed.
2. Can I manually figure out my AirPods Pro’s manufacturing date?
For older AirPods Pro, yes—you could decode the manufacturing year and week from the serial number. For newer models, Apple uses randomized formats, making it nearly impossible to decode the date yourself. Apple’s official support tools or coverage checker are your best options for accurate info.
3. Why does my AirPods Pro serial number not work on Apple’s website?
There are a few possible reasons:
– Typing errors are common; double-check the serial.
– The product may be counterfeit and not officially recognized by Apple.
– If bought in certain regions or as part of a special bundle, there may be registration delays. If in doubt, contact Apple support.
4. Does the manufacturing date affect my warranty automatically?
Not directly—Apple generally starts counting warranty from your purchase date, not the manufacturing date. However, for unused, unregistered AirPods Pro, there can sometimes be a discrepancy. Always register your device and keep your purchase receipt for full warranty coverage.
5. Is it a problem if my AirPods Pro were manufactured more than a year before I bought them?
Not necessarily. Apple’s warranty should begin from your official purchase date. However, older manufacture dates could mean your product’s batteries are slightly aged, and overall lifespan might be a bit shorter than a freshly made pair. Always buy from reputable sellers to ensure full warranty coverage.
With this knowledge, you’re equipped to understand, check, and care for your AirPods Pro confidently, ensuring they last—and perform—the way Apple intended.
