If you are reading this, you may be looking to quality check your replica AirPods or considering purchasing authentic ones. In this section of the guide, we will discuss how to tell the difference between retail and replica AirPods. We will start with the simpler methods and move on to more advanced ones. Please keep in mind that if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
First off, we will start with the simple ones to check design flaws.
• One way to tell the difference between retail and replica AirPods is to check if the LED light is diffused, or frosted. This means that the plastic inside the LED is transparent and almost greyish in color, rather than just being a hole. If the AirPods have this feature, it is a good indication that they are authentic. This method works for all AirPods models, from the first generation to the Pro version.
• Compare the color of the hinge on the case to reference pictures. Here are some examples:
- For AirPods with a wired case (first and second generation, with the lower sync button on the left) and a wireless case (second generation, with the centered sync button on the right): https://i.imgur.com/JfMAIrY.jpeg
- For AirPods Pro case (with “Made in Vietnam” text on the back): https://i.imgur.com/SnA7mqI.jpg
• Check if the button on the case is flush with the rest of the case. If the button is not flush, it is a sign that the AirPods are replicas. In authentic AirPods, the button should be flush with the case.
• We will not cover the text on the AirPods that includes certifications and serial/model numbers, as these can vary depending on the region where the AirPods were sold.
We will now go over software differences.
• One of the easiest ways to tell if your AirPods are authentic is to check if the popup appears within 2-3 seconds of turning on Bluetooth. If the popup appears, it is a good indication that your AirPods are authentic.
• Another way to verify the authenticity of your AirPods is to check if they have device settings under the “i” button next to the Bluetooth name in your device settings. This method works for iOS 10 or higher with first-generation AirPods, iOS 12.2 or higher with second-generation AirPods, and iOS 13.2 or higher with AirPods Pro. If your AirPods have these settings, it is a good indication that they are authentic.
• To check the authenticity of your AirPods using the “About Page” method, go to your device settings while your AirPods are connected and click on the “About” section. Scroll down and look for a page called “AirPods” or “AirPods Pro” (this should only appear for authentic AirPods).
Then, compare the serial number on this page to the serial number on the AirPods case to make sure they match. If the serial numbers match and there is an “AirPods” or “AirPods Pro” page in your device settings, it is a good indication that your AirPods are authentic.
• On AirPods Pro, you can check for the presence of a “Spatial Audio” toggle in the AirPods settings (this requires iOS 14 or higher and an iPhone 7 or newer). If the toggle is present, it is another indication that your AirPods are authentic. To test the “Spatial Audio” feature, use the demo provided by Apple. When the feature is enabled, the audio should sound like it is coming directly from the speakers of your phone. You should be able to walk around the phone and the audio should follow you, as if the phone were a speaker (other people should not be able to hear the audio). If the “Spatial Audio” feature works as described, it is another indication that your AirPods are authentic.
