Apple AirPods come in many types. It can be hard to tell which ones you have. You can find out which AirPods you own by checking the model number in your device settings or on the AirPods themselves. This info helps when you need to update, fix, or replace your AirPods.
Knowing your AirPods model is useful. It lets you use all their features. Each type of AirPods has different ways to control sound and talk to Siri. Some have noise canceling, while others don’t. The case they come in can also be different.
There are simple ways to check which AirPods you have. You can look at how they’re shaped or use your iPhone to find out. This article will show you easy steps to figure out your AirPods model. We’ll also talk about what makes each type special.
Identifying Your AirPods Model
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to distinguish between different AirPods generations, including the newer AirPods 4 (both standard and with ANC) released in September 2024. We’ll cover visual cues from the charging case, the crucial model numbers, and how to check your AirPods information through your iPhone’s settings.
This information will help you quickly and accurately identify your AirPods.
Determining Your AirPods Generation
Apple has released several generations of AirPods, each with distinct features and designs. Knowing which model you own is important for troubleshooting, finding compatible accessories, and understanding their capabilities. This guide will help you identify your AirPods.
Identifying AirPods by Case
The charging case is often the easiest way to distinguish between different AirPods models. Look for these key features:
- 1st and 2nd Generation AirPods: These have the same case design. It’s a small, rectangular case with a flip-top lid. The only way to tell them apart is by the model number inside the lid.
- 3rd Generation AirPods: The case is wider and shorter than the first two generations and supports MagSafe charging.
- AirPods 4 (Standard): Similar in shape to the 3rd generation case, but with slight refinements. Supports MagSafe charging.
- AirPods 4 (with ANC): Identical case to the standard AirPods 4 but also supports MagSafe charging.
- AirPods Pro (1st Generation): The case is wider and flatter than the standard AirPods case. It also has a silicone ear tip slot.
- AirPods Pro (2nd Generation): The case looks similar to the 1st generation Pro case but has a speaker at the bottom for Find My alerts and a lanyard loop on the side.
- AirPods Max: These are over-ear headphones and don’t have a traditional charging case. They come with a Smart Case that puts them into a low-power state.
Finding the Model Number
Every AirPods case has a model number printed inside the lid. This is the most reliable way to identify your AirPods. Here’s how to find it:
- Open the AirPods case lid.
- Look for small print on the inside of the lid.
- You’ll see text that says “Model” followed by a letter and number combination.
Decoding the Model Numbers
Here’s a list of AirPods model numbers and their corresponding generations:
- AirPods (1st generation): A1523, A1722
- AirPods (2nd generation): A2032, A2031
- AirPods (3rd generation): A2565, A2564
- AirPods 4 (Standard): A3053, A3050, A3054, A3058, MXP63LL/A
- AirPods 4 (with ANC): A3056, A3055, A3057, MXP93LL/A
- AirPods Pro (1st generation): A2084, A2083
- AirPods Pro (2nd generation): A2698, A2699, A2700
- AirPods Max: A2096
Table of AirPods Identification
| AirPods Model | Case Appearance | Model Numbers | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Generation | Small, rectangular case | A1523, A1722 | Basic audio, Siri |
| 2nd Generation | Small, rectangular case (same as 1st gen) | A2032, A2031 | Basic audio, Siri |
| 3rd Generation | Wider, shorter case, MagSafe charging | A2565, A2564 | Spatial audio, Adaptive EQ |
| AirPods 4 (Standard) | Similar to 3rd Gen, MagSafe charging | A3053, A3050, A3054 | Improved audio, improved comfort |
| AirPods 4 (with ANC) | Identical to Standard 4, MagSafe charging | A3056, A3055, A3057 | Improved audio, improved comfort, ANC, Wireless Charging |
| AirPods Pro (1st Gen) | Wider, flatter case, silicone ear tip slot | A2084, A2083 | ANC, Transparency, Adaptive EQ |
| AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) | Similar to 1st Gen Pro, speaker at the bottom, lanyard loop | A2698, A2699, A2700 | ANC, Transparency, Adaptive EQ, improved audio, Find My |
| AirPods Max | Over-ear headphones, Smart Case | A2096 | ANC, Transparency, spatial audio, over-ear design |
Checking AirPods in iPhone Settings (If Connected)
If your AirPods are paired with your iPhone, you can also find information about them in the Settings app:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap “Bluetooth.”
- Find your AirPods in the list of devices.
- Tap the “i” icon next to them.
- This will show you information about your AirPods, including the model number.
Understanding AirPods Features
Knowing your AirPods model helps you understand which features are available to you. For example, only AirPods Pro models and the AirPods 4 with ANC have Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode. Only the 3rd and 4th generation AirPods and AirPods Pro models support spatial audio.
Key AirPods Features by Model
- AirPods (1st & 2nd Gen): Basic audio playback, Siri access
- AirPods (3rd Gen): Spatial audio, Adaptive EQ, shorter stem design
- AirPods 4 (Standard): Improved audio quality, improved comfort
- AirPods 4 (with ANC): Improved audio quality, improved comfort, Active Noise Cancellation, Wireless Charging
- AirPods Pro (1st & 2nd Gen): Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, spatial audio, silicone ear tips
- AirPods Max: Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, spatial audio, over-ear design
Key Takeaways
- AirPods can be identified by their model number or physical features
- Each AirPods type has unique features and controls
- Knowing your AirPods model helps with updates and troubleshooting
Identifying Your AirPods Model
Apple’s AirPods lineup has expanded over the years, offering various models with different features and price points. Identifying your specific AirPods model is essential for troubleshooting, finding compatible accessories, and understanding the available functionalities.
Finding out which AirPods you have is easy. You can check the model number, look at how they look, or use your iPhone settings. Here’s how to figure it out.
By Model Number and Serial Number
The model number is the quickest way to identify your AirPods. Open your AirPods case and look under the lid. You’ll see numbers printed there.
Here’s what they mean:
- A1722 or A2031: AirPods (1st generation)
- A2032 or A2031: AirPods (2nd generation)
- A2565, A2564: AirPods (3rd generation)
- A2084, A2083: AirPods Pro (1st generation)
- A2698, A2699: AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
The serial number is next to the model number. You can use it to check your warranty or get support from Apple.
Physical Characteristics and Accessories
AirPods look different across generations. First and second-gen AirPods have longer stems. Third-gen AirPods have shorter stems with a force sensor.
AirPods Pro are shorter and have silicone ear tips. They also have active noise cancellation.
The charging case changed too:
- First and second-gen: Oval case with Lightning port
- Third-gen: Shorter case with Lightning or MagSafe
- AirPods Pro (2nd gen): Case with lanyard loop and speaker
Using Device Settings and Bluetooth
Your iPhone can tell you which AirPods you have. Here’s how:
- Connect your AirPods to your iPhone
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the “i” next to your AirPods
- Look for “About” to see your model
This method works for all AirPods models. It’s helpful if you can’t find the numbers on your case.
Troubleshooting Connection and Recognition Issues
If your iPhone doesn’t recognize your AirPods, try these steps:
- Make sure Bluetooth is on
- Put AirPods in the case and close it
- Wait 15 seconds, then open the case
- Press and hold the setup button until the light flashes
If that doesn’t work, try resetting your AirPods. Put them in the case, hold the setup button for 15 seconds until the light flashes amber, then white.
Still having trouble? Check if your iOS is up to date. Older versions might not work with newer AirPods.
