How to Tell If You Are Buying A Fake AirPod

AirPods are everywhere—in the gym, on commutes, in Zoom meetings, even in your ears right now, maybe? Moreover, it's challenging to distinguish the fakes from the genuine AirPods, even deceiving die-hard Apple fans.

Don’t worry, this isn’t one of those overly technical guides that make you feel like you need an engineering degree to shop smart. Here are simple ways you can tell if you're buying a fake AirPods because we all deserve to know what we’re paying for. 

READ ALSO: How To Deep Clean Your AirPods/Earbuds

Before even opening the box, take a close look at the packaging. Apple is known for its meticulous attention to detail, so any inconsistencies could be a red flag.

• Serial Number: Check the side of the box for the serial number. You can verify it on Apple's Check Coverage page.

• Spelling and Grammar: Look out for any typos or grammatical errors. Apple’s packaging is typically flawless in this regard.

• Apple Logo: Ensure the Apple logo is crisp and clear. A blurry or off-center logo might indicate a counterfeit.

• Box Contents: Inside the box, there should be a warranty card and a safety sheet, not just a manual. Missing documentation could be a sign of a fake.

Also, remember that authentic AirPods only come in white (excluding the AirPods Max). If you see AirPods in other colors, they're likely not genuine.

Each pair of AirPods has a unique serial number. For AirPods and AirPods Pro, the serial number is on the inside of the charging case lid. For AirPods Max, it's located under the left ear cushion.

Once you have the serial number, go to Apple's Check Coverage page and enter it. If the serial number isn't recognized, that's a strong indication that the AirPods are counterfeit.

Authentic AirPods have a high-quality finish and precise construction. Counterfeit versions might have:

• Loose Hinges: The lid should open and close smoothly.

• Misaligned Seams: Seams should be tight and barely noticeable.

• Incorrect LED Placement: The LED indicator should be on the front of the case.

• Unusual Colours: As mentioned, AirPods are only available in white, except for the AirPods Max.

If you notice any of these issues, it's worth investigating further.

Price: $166.96 (with Noise Cancellation), $142.99 (without Noise Cancellation) Where To Buy: Shop Amazon

READ ALSO: These 9 Earbuds Cancel Noise for ₦30,000 and Under

When you open the AirPods case near your iPhone, a genuine pair should trigger an automatic pairing pop-up. If you don't see this and have to connect manually through Bluetooth settings, that's a potential red flag.

Additionally, after connecting, you can check the firmware version by going to Settings > Bluetooth > [Your AirPods] > About. Compare this with the latest firmware versions listed on Apple's support site. Discrepancies could indicate counterfeit products.

Real AirPods let you summon Siri by saying “Hey Siri” or double-tapping (depending on the model).

Fakes often:

• Don’t connect to Siri at all.

• Redirect you to Google Assistant

• Use unusual voice prompts, such as “connected,” in robotic or glitchy voices.

If it doesn’t sound like Apple, it probably isn’t.

If you're still uncertain about the authenticity of your AirPods:

• Contact Apple Support: Provide them with the serial number and details of your purchase.

• Visit an Apple Store: Apple staff can inspect the AirPods and confirm their authenticity.

Price: $539.00 Where To Buy: Shop Amazon

READ ALSO: How to Recognize Original and Refurbished iPhones 

If something feels off, whether it's the price, packaging, or performance, it's okay to question its authenticity. It's always better to be cautious and verify than to end up with a subpar product.

Counterfeit AirPods are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it essential to stay vigilant. You can protect yourself from falling victim to counterfeit products by carefully examining the packaging, verifying the serial number, inspecting the physical attributes, testing the pairing process, and purchasing from reputable sources.

If you have any doubts or require further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for verification.