Apple Extends Free AirPods Pro Repair/Replacement Validity to Three Years

Apple has extended the validity of the repair program on AirPods Pro units that have problems with noise or static cancellation. Under this program, affected users can repair or replace their AirPods Pro for free at any time within two years, but with the latest extension, three years have passed after the sale. The change in the validity of the repair program was spotted by Reddit users on Apple's support page and they claim that the extension may have been announced in early October.

The AirPods Pro repair program was originally introduced in October 2020, just one year after Apple's most expensive headphones arrived in 2019. The purpose of this program is to cover defective AirPods Pro beyond the standard warranty period, Which is why Apple announced the program just as the AirPods Pro warranty was expiring. But with the extension, AirPods Pro purchased in 2019 are now covered until October 2022, while those purchased later will be covered for more years.

There are only two ways you can repair or replace your AirPods Pro with this program: if your AirPods Pro produces cracking or static sounds that increase in noisy environments or while exercising or talking on the phone, and if active noise cancellation does not work as it should, as it affects the bass of the music or increases the background sounds, like an aeroplane or a busy street.

Apple has noted on its website that the affected units were made in October 2020, so there is a slim chance that its latest AirPods Pro has these issues. But there is still a possibility due to the inventory that your AirPods Pro unit comes from. Still, Apple is offering you free repair or replacement for the left, right, or both earbuds.

This also means that Apple will not replace or repair the charging case for free out of warranty, even if you have problems there. "The AirPods Pro case is not affected and will not be replaced," said Apple. In cases where the problem is not what Apple has noted, your repairs and replacements will work according to the standard warranty period.

You can go to your nearest Apple Authorized Service Provider "to have your AirPods Pro serviced." Only after an exam will your AirPods Pro be serviced under the free program. You should also note that this program does not extend the AirPods Pro warranty. This means that the three-year program will start on your unit immediately after you purchase it.