Losing an AirPod can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure what to do next. Whether you’ve misplaced one in your home, dropped it on the go, or had it stolen, there are steps you can take to recover your lost AirPod or replace it if necessary. In this article, we’ll explore what happens if you lose one AirPod, how to find a lost AirPod, and what options are available for replacing a lost AirPod.
What Happens If I Lose One AirPod?
If you lose one AirPod, you’ll still be able to use the remaining AirPod, but you might experience some limitations. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Single AirPod use: You can still use a single AirPod for listening to music, podcasts, or taking phone calls. However, you might not be able to use some features like spatial audio or noise cancellation.
- Charging and pairing: If you lose one AirPod, you can still charge the remaining AirPod in the charging case. However, if you want to pair a new AirPod with your existing one, you’ll need to reset the AirPods and pair them again.
- Sound quality: Using a single AirPod might affect the sound quality, especially if you’re used to listening to music or watching videos with both AirPods. You might notice a difference in the audio balance or soundstage.
How to Find a Lost AirPod
If you’ve misplaced an AirPod, there are a few ways to find it:
- Check your surroundings: Start by checking the area where you last used your AirPods. Look in obvious places like your ears, pockets, or nearby surfaces.
- Use Find My iPhone: If you’ve paired your AirPods with your iPhone, you can use the Find My iPhone feature to locate them. Open the Find My iPhone app, select your AirPods, and you’ll see their last known location on a map.
- Play a sound: If you’re still having trouble finding your AirPod, you can play a sound to help locate it. Open the Find My iPhone app, select your AirPods, and tap “Play Sound.” Your AirPod will play a loud sound that can help you locate it.
Tips for Finding a Lost AirPod
- Check your charging case: Make sure to check your charging case, as it’s easy to overlook an AirPod that’s still in the case.
- Look in small spaces: AirPods can easily slip into small spaces like couch cushions, car seats, or between keyboard keys.
- Ask for help: If you’re still having trouble finding your AirPod, ask a friend or family member to help you search.
Replacing a Lost AirPod
If you’re unable to find your lost AirPod, you might need to replace it. Here are your options:
- Apple Support: You can contact Apple Support to purchase a replacement AirPod. You’ll need to provide proof of purchase and your AirPods’ serial number.
- Apple Store: You can visit an Apple Store to purchase a replacement AirPod. Make sure to bring your proof of purchase and your AirPods’ serial number.
- Authorized Resellers: You can also purchase a replacement AirPod from an authorized Apple reseller. Make sure to check the reseller’s return and warranty policies before making a purchase.
Cost of Replacing a Lost AirPod
The cost of replacing a lost AirPod varies depending on the model and your location. Here are the current prices for replacing a lost AirPod:
| Model | Replacement Cost |
| — | — |
| AirPods (2nd generation) | $69 |
| AirPods Pro | $89 |
| AirPods Max | $149 |
Tips for Replacing a Lost AirPod
- Check your warranty: If your AirPods are still under warranty, you might be able to get a replacement for free.
- Consider purchasing AppleCare+: AppleCare+ provides extended warranty coverage for your AirPods, including accidental damage and loss.
- Buy from authorized resellers: Make sure to purchase a replacement AirPod from an authorized Apple reseller to ensure you’re getting a genuine product.
Preventing Future Losses
To prevent losing an AirPod in the future, here are a few tips:
- Use a case or strap: Consider using a case or strap to keep your AirPods secure when not in use.
- Label your AirPods: Use a permanent marker to label your AirPods with your name or initials.
- Keep your AirPods in a designated spot: Designate a specific spot, like a charging dock or a small tray, to keep your AirPods when not in use.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of losing an AirPod and ensure you’re always able to enjoy your music, podcasts, or phone calls without interruption.
What happens to my music and calls when I lose an AirPod?
When you lose an AirPod, your music and calls will be affected. If you’re in the middle of a call, it will be paused, and you’ll need to resume it using the remaining AirPod or switch to your iPhone. If you’re listening to music, it will stop playing until you reconnect the lost AirPod or switch to a different audio output.
However, if you have the latest AirPods model with the H1 chip, you can continue listening to music or taking calls using the remaining AirPod. The audio will automatically switch to the remaining AirPod, ensuring minimal disruption to your listening experience.
Can I still use my remaining AirPod?
Yes, you can still use your remaining AirPod. Apple’s AirPods are designed to work independently, so you can continue listening to music, taking calls, or using Siri with the remaining AirPod. However, keep in mind that you might experience a slight decrease in sound quality, as the remaining AirPod will be working alone to produce stereo sound.
You can also use the remaining AirPod to locate the lost one using the Find My app on your iPhone. The app will help you track the last known location of your lost AirPod and provide directions to find it.
How do I locate my lost AirPod using the Find My app?
To locate your lost AirPod using the Find My app, open the app on your iPhone and select the “Devices” tab. Look for your AirPods in the list of devices and select them. If your AirPods are connected to your iPhone, you’ll see a map showing the last known location of your lost AirPod. You can also play a sound on the lost AirPod to help you locate it.
If your AirPods are not connected to your iPhone, you can still see the last known location of your lost AirPod on the map. However, you won’t be able to play a sound on the lost AirPod. Make sure your iPhone is connected to the internet and that you have the latest software updates installed for the Find My app to work effectively.
Can I replace a single lost AirPod?
Yes, you can replace a single lost AirPod. Apple offers a replacement program for lost or damaged AirPods. You can contact Apple support or visit an Apple Store to purchase a replacement AirPod. The cost of a replacement AirPod varies depending on the model and your location.
Before purchasing a replacement AirPod, make sure to check if your AirPods are still under warranty. If they are, you might be able to get a replacement AirPod for free. Additionally, if you have AppleCare+, you can get a replacement AirPod for a lower fee.
How do I reset my AirPods after replacing a lost one?
To reset your AirPods after replacing a lost one, put the new AirPod in the charging case and close the lid. Open the lid and place the charging case near your iPhone. You’ll see a prompt on your iPhone to set up the new AirPod. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
Once you’ve set up the new AirPod, your AirPods will be reset, and you’ll need to reconnect them to your iPhone. Make sure your iPhone is connected to the internet and that you have the latest software updates installed for the setup process to work smoothly.
Can I use a replacement AirPod with my existing charging case?
Yes, you can use a replacement AirPod with your existing charging case. Apple’s AirPods are designed to be compatible with any charging case, regardless of the model or generation. Simply place the new AirPod in the charging case and close the lid. The charging case will recognize the new AirPod and start charging it.
However, if you’re using a wireless charging case, make sure it’s compatible with the new AirPod. Some older wireless charging cases might not be compatible with the latest AirPods models. Check Apple’s website for compatibility information before purchasing a replacement AirPod.
How do I prevent losing my AirPods in the future?
To prevent losing your AirPods in the future, consider using a case or strap to keep them secure. You can purchase AirPods cases or straps from Apple or third-party manufacturers. Additionally, make sure to keep your AirPods in the charging case when not in use to prevent them from getting lost.
You can also enable the “Notify When Left Behind” feature on your iPhone to receive notifications when you leave your AirPods behind. This feature uses Bluetooth to track the location of your AirPods and sends you notifications when you’re separated from them.