One of the most frustrating experiences with wireless earbuds is discovering that only one AirPod is charging. You place them in the case, expecting a full charge, only to find one bud ready to go while the other is nearly depleted. This isn’t uncommon, and thankfully, the fix is usually straightforward.
Why It Happens
Several factors can contribute to this imbalance. The most frequent culprit is debris obstructing the charging connection. Earwax or dust can accumulate on the bottom of the AirPods themselves, or within the magnetic connectors inside the charging case, preventing a solid electrical contact. Another common issue is improper seating – if an AirPod isn’t fully and correctly positioned in the case, it won’t charge effectively.
A less obvious, but equally important, factor is the charging case’s battery level. If the case itself is running low – below 10%, according to MacRumors – it may not have sufficient power to fully charge both AirPods. It’s a simple oversight, but one that often leads to this uneven charging scenario.
How to Fix the Issue
Fortunately, resolving this issue doesn’t require a trip to the Apple Store or a third-party repair shop. A few simple steps can usually get both AirPods charging reliably again.
Clean Both the AirPods and Their Case
The first and often most effective step is a thorough cleaning. Use a lint-free microfiber cloth to gently wipe both the AirPods and the inside of the charging case. Pay particular attention to the charging contacts on the bottom of the AirPods and within the case. Avoid using abrasive materials or liquids, as these could damage the components. A slightly dampened cloth with isopropyl alcohol can be used for disinfection, but ensure no liquid enters the ports.
For a more detailed clean, consider a headphone cleaning pen. These compact tools typically include a brush, sponge tip, and a small pick, allowing you to carefully remove debris from hard-to-reach areas. They’re inexpensive and portable, making them a useful addition to any tech accessory kit.
Physically Remove and Re-Add the AirPods
Sometimes, a simple reset is all that’s needed. Remove both AirPods from the case, or just the one that isn’t charging, and then carefully reinsert them. Ensure they are firmly seated in the case. Leave them in the case for approximately 15 minutes to allow them to attempt to charge. Check the battery level afterward to see if the issue has been resolved.
If the case’s battery was the problem, this step will allow it to begin charging the AirPods. However, if the problem persists, proceed to the next step.
Reset the AirPods
If cleaning and reseating don’t work, a factory reset may be necessary. The process varies slightly depending on your AirPod model. For original AirPods and AirPods Pro (first and second generation), place them in the case, close the lid, and wait 30 seconds. Then, open the lid and press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds, until the status light flashes amber, then white.
For AirPods 4th generation and AirPods Pro 3rd generation, the process is different. Remove the AirPods from the case, then double-tap the front of the case three times. The status light will flash amber, then white, indicating a successful reset.
After resetting, reconnect your AirPods to your devices as you did during the initial setup.
Contact Apple Support
If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting steps and one AirPod still refuses to charge, it’s time to contact Apple Support. They can provide further assistance and determine if there’s a hardware issue requiring repair or replacement.
Apple offers several support options, including phone support, messaging through the Maps app, and the Apple Support app. The app features a digital support assistant that can guide you through troubleshooting steps and connect you with a live agent if needed. They may ask you to repeat steps you’ve already taken, but this is part of their diagnostic process.
a single AirPod not charging is a common issue with a usually simple solution. A little cleaning, a quick reset, or a call to Apple Support can often restore both AirPods to full power, ensuring a seamless listening experience.
