AirPods are popular wireless earbuds, but counterfeit versions flood the market. Knowing how to check your AirPods’ serial number is crucial to ensure you have genuine Apple products.
You can find the serial number of your AirPods on your paired device, the AirPods themselves, or the packaging. This unique identifier helps verify authenticity and access support services. By entering this number on Apple’s website, you can confirm if your AirPods are real and check their warranty status.
Fake AirPods may look similar, but they lack Apple’s quality and features. Checking the serial number protects your investment and ensures you enjoy the full benefits of authentic AirPods. Use this simple step to safeguard against counterfeits and maintain your audio experience.
| AirPods Model | Where to Find Serial Number |
|---|---|
| AirPods Pro | Charging case lid |
| AirPods (1st-3rd gen) | Charging case lid |
| AirPods Max | Inside left ear cup |
Buying AirPods secondhand or from an unofficial seller? Or just want to know if yours are still under warranty? Here’s how to check both authenticity and coverage.
1. 🔍 Find Your AirPods Serial Number
You’ll need the serial number to check authenticity and warranty. You can find it:
- On the case lid (inside, near the hinge).
- On the original box (next to the barcode).
- In your iPhone settings:
- Go to Settings → Bluetooth → [Your AirPods] → ⓘ → Serial Number.
2. ✅ Verify Authenticity
- Go to Apple’s Check Coverage page: checkcoverage.apple.com.
- Enter the serial number and the CAPTCHA code.
- If the AirPods are genuine, Apple will show product info.
- If you get an error like “Invalid serial number”, they may not be authentic.
👉 Other authenticity checks:
- Build quality: Real AirPods have flawless seams and smooth pairing.
- Pairing animation: Genuine AirPods show Apple’s official pairing pop‑up on iPhone.
- Firmware updates: Only authentic AirPods receive Apple firmware updates.
3. 📅 Check Warranty Status
On the same Apple Check Coverage page, you’ll see:
- Valid Purchase Date: Confirms activation.
- Telephone Support Status: Whether phone support is still active.
- Repairs and Service Coverage: Shows if you’re still covered under Apple’s 1‑year limited warranty or AppleCare+.
4. 🛠️ What To Do If They’re Not Genuine
- If bought from an unauthorized seller, request a refund.
- Report counterfeit products to Apple: Apple Counterfeit Reporting.
- Always buy from Apple, authorized resellers, or trusted retailers.
5. 🆘 Extra Tips
- If your AirPods aren’t charging or connecting, it could be a fake battery issue.
- AppleCare+ for Headphones can be purchased within 60 days of purchase if they’re genuine.
- Keep your proof of purchase — it helps with warranty claims.
✅ Quick Summary:
- Get the serial number.
- Enter it at checkcoverage.apple.com.
- If Apple recognizes it → they’re authentic + you’ll see warranty details.
- If not → likely counterfeit.
Real vs Fake AirPods: Quick Comparison Checklist
| Feature | ✅ Real AirPods | ❌ Fake AirPods |
|---|---|---|
| Serial Number | Each pair has a unique serial number that works on Apple’s site | Often missing, duplicated, or invalid on Apple’s site |
| Pairing Animation | Smooth Apple pop‑up animation on iPhone/iPad | Pop‑up may look similar but often laggy, blurry, or missing details |
| Build Quality | Seamless finish, precise hinge, strong magnets, perfect fit in case | Rough edges, loose hinge, weak magnets, earbuds don’t align perfectly |
| Sound Quality | Balanced sound, deep bass, clear mids/highs | Flat, tinny, distorted at high volume |
| Firmware Updates | Receives firmware updates via iPhone settings | No updates available |
| Charging Case | LED indicator behaves consistently (inside or front depending on model) | LED may be in the wrong place, overly bright, or inconsistent |
| Weight | Matches Apple’s official specs (light but solid) | Often heavier or lighter due to cheap components |
| Price | Premium pricing (usually $120–250 depending on model) | Suspiciously cheap (e.g., $30–60) |
| Bluetooth Name | Shows as “AirPods” or “AirPods Pro” with correct model | May show generic names like “TWS” or “AirPods Pro Copy” |
| Packaging | High‑quality box, sharp printing, correct Apple font | Blurry text, spelling errors, missing Apple logos |
⚡ Quick Spotting Tips
- If the serial number doesn’t work on Apple’s site → they’re fake.
- If the pairing animation looks off → likely fake.
- If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
Identifying Your AirPods Model
Knowing your AirPods model helps you access the right features and support. Apple offers several AirPods versions with unique characteristics and capabilities.
Differences Between Models
AirPods come in various models with distinct features:
- AirPods (1st generation): Basic wireless earbuds
- AirPods (2nd generation): Improved battery life, “Hey Siri” support
- AirPods (3rd generation): Spatial audio, sweat resistance
- AirPods Pro: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode
- AirPods Max: Over-ear design, high-fidelity audio
Each model has a unique model number to help identify it. For example, AirPods Pro 2 have model numbers A2931, A2698, or A2699.
Locating the Serial Number on Different Models
Finding your AirPods serial number varies by model:
AirPods and AirPods Pro:
- Check under the lid of the charging case
- Look on the underside of each earbud
AirPods Max:
- Find it behind the left ear cushion
On your iPhone:
- Connect your AirPods
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the “i” icon next to your AirPods
- Scroll down to see the serial number
You can also find your AirPods information on your Mac by going to Apple menu > System Settings and clicking on your AirPods name in the sidebar.
| Model | Serial Number Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods/AirPods Pro | Case lid, earbuds | Wireless, in-ear |
| AirPods Max | Left ear cushion | Over-ear, noise cancellation |
| All Models | iPhone Settings | Viewable when connected |
Verifying Authenticity and Warranty Status
Confirming the authenticity of your AirPods and checking their warranty status are crucial steps for Apple product owners. These processes help protect your investment and ensure you receive proper support.
How to Recognize Genuine Apple AirPods
To spot real AirPods, examine the packaging and product carefully. Genuine AirPods come in high-quality boxes with precise printing and Apple’s signature minimalist design. Check for typos or blurry text, which may indicate counterfeit products.
Inspect the AirPods and case for build quality. Authentic AirPods have smooth, seamless construction and a precise fit in the charging case. Look for the Apple logo and text engravings on the AirPods and case.
Verify the serial number on your AirPods. You can find it:
- On the underside of the AirPods case lid
- In your iPhone’s settings (if paired)
- On the original packaging
Use this number to check coverage on Apple’s website.
Checking Warranty Status Online
To verify your AirPods’ warranty status, visit Apple’s coverage check page. Enter your AirPods’ serial number and the captcha code.
The results will show:
- Purchase date
- Warranty expiration
- Eligibility for AppleCare+ purchase
If your AirPods are still under warranty, you can get free support for manufacturing defects. For out-of-warranty devices, Apple offers paid repair services.
| Warranty Type | Duration | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Warranty | 1 year | Manufacturing defects |
| AppleCare+ | 2 years | Accidental damage, extended support |
Remember to keep your proof of purchase. It may be required for warranty claims or repairs.
Using the Settings App For Verification
The Settings app on your iOS device offers a quick and reliable way to verify your AirPods’ serial number and firmware information. This method works for all AirPods models including AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max.
Finding Serial Number Within the Settings App
To locate your AirPods’ serial number, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad
- Tap Bluetooth
- Find your AirPods in the device list
- Tap the “i” (More Info) button next to your AirPods
You’ll see the serial number displayed on this screen. If your AirPods aren’t connected, put them in the case and open the lid near your device. This should make them appear in the Bluetooth menu.
For newer iOS versions, you can also find this information by going to Settings > [Your Name] > [Your AirPods].
Understanding Firmware Information
The More Info screen also shows your AirPods’ current firmware version. This number indicates the software running on your AirPods. Apple regularly releases firmware updates to improve performance and add features.
To check if your firmware is up to date:
- Note the firmware version in Settings
- Visit Apple’s support website
- Compare your version to the latest release
Firmware updates happen automatically when your AirPods are charging and near your iOS device. You can’t manually update AirPods firmware.
| AirPods Model | Where to Find Serial Number | Firmware Location |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods | Settings > Bluetooth | More Info screen |
| AirPods Pro | Settings > Bluetooth | More Info screen |
| AirPods Max | Settings > Bluetooth | More Info screen |
By regularly checking this information, you can ensure your AirPods are genuine and running the latest software for optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
AirPods serial numbers play a key role in verifying authenticity, checking warranty status, and identifying specific models. These unique identifiers help users protect their investment and access support services.
How can I verify the authenticity of my AirPods using the serial number?
To check if your AirPods are genuine, visit Apple’s official service and support coverage checker. Enter the serial number of your AirPods. If the system recognizes it, your AirPods are likely authentic.
Be cautious of third-party verification websites. Stick to Apple’s official tools for the most reliable results.
Where can I find the serial number on my AirPods Pro for verification?
Locate the serial number on your AirPods Pro case. Open the lid and look inside the case. You’ll see the serial number printed on the underside of the lid.
For individual AirPods Pro, check under the ear tip. Remove the tip to reveal the serial number printed on the stem.
What is the process to check the warranty status of my AirPods through the serial number?
Use Apple’s coverage checker to verify your AirPods‘ warranty status. Enter the serial number on the website. It will display your current coverage details and expiration date.
This tool also shows eligibility for AppleCare+ if you want extended coverage.
Is it possible to identify the generation of AirPods by their serial number?
While the serial number itself doesn’t directly indicate the AirPods generation, you can use it to look up the model information. Each AirPods generation has specific model numbers.
For example, AirPods Pro (1st generation) use model numbers A2084 or A2083.
How can I differentiate between genuine and counterfeit AirPods using the serial number?
Genuine AirPods will have a valid serial number recognized by Apple’s systems. Use the official coverage checker to verify. If the serial number isn’t recognized, the AirPods may be counterfeit.
Be wary of repeated serial numbers. Fake AirPods often use copied serial numbers from genuine products.
Does Apple provide a serial number checking service for lost or stolen AirPods?
Apple doesn’t offer a specific service to check if AirPods are lost or stolen based on the serial number. However, you can use the Find My app to locate your own lost AirPods if they’re linked to your Apple ID.
If you suspect your AirPods are stolen, contact local law enforcement. They may be able to check the serial number against reported thefts.
| AirPods Generation | Model Numbers | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods (1st gen) | A1523, A1722 | 2016 |
| AirPods (2nd gen) | A2031, A2032 | 2019 |
| AirPods Pro | A2084, A2083 | 2019 |
| AirPods (3rd gen) | A2565, A2564 | 2021 |
| AirPods Pro (2nd gen) | A2699, A2698 | 2022 |
