AirPods Cannot Charge

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When AirPods cannot charge, the issue often comes from dirty contacts, a faulty charging case, damaged cables, or firmware glitches. Charging problems can affect one or both AirPods, or the case itself. Here’s how to identify the cause and restore proper charging.

Check the Power Source and Cable

Start by confirming that the charger and cable are functioning correctly.

  • Plug the Lightning cable into another device to test if it provides power.
  • Try a different Lightning cable and power adapter.
  • If using a wireless charger, ensure it’s Qi-certified and properly aligned.
  • Avoid using low-quality or damaged third-party cables.

If the charging indicator light on the case does not turn on when connected, the issue might lie with the cable, adapter, or charging port.

Inspect and Clean the Charging Case

Dust, lint, and debris inside the case can block the charging pins and prevent the AirPods from making contact.

How to Clean the Charging Case
  1. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the case.
  2. Gently remove debris from the charging ports and AirPod slots with a dry cotton swab or a soft brush.
  3. Do not use liquids, compressed air, or sharp objects.
  4. Check that the metal charging contacts inside the case are intact and not corroded.

After cleaning, reinsert the AirPods and see if the status light responds when the lid is opened.

Check the AirPods Charging Status

On iPhone or iPad
  1. Open the lid of the charging case with the AirPods inside.
  2. Hold it near the iPhone or iPad.
  3. A pop-up should appear showing battery levels for both AirPods and the case.

Using the Case Light Indicator
  • Amber light: Charging or low battery.
  • Green light: Fully charged.
  • No light: Case or AirPods are not receiving power.

If the light doesn’t turn on, the case might need to be charged longer or reset.

Ensure Proper AirPod Placement

Improper placement in the charging case can prevent one or both AirPods from charging.

  • Insert each AirPod until you feel a magnetic click.
  • Confirm that both earbuds sit securely in their slots.
  • Close the lid and wait a few seconds before checking the charge status.

If one AirPod charges and the other does not, that individual unit or slot may have a contact issue.

Reset the AirPods

Resetting the AirPods can fix software-related charging errors.

Steps to Reset
  1. Place both AirPods in the charging case.
  2. Close the lid and wait for 30 seconds.
  3. Open the lid.
  4. On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the i next to your AirPods, and choose Forget This Device.
  5. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the light flashes amber, then white.
  6. Reconnect the AirPods by opening the lid near your iPhone or iPad.

After the reset, check if both AirPods charge normally.

Try a Wired Charge Instead of Wireless (or Vice Versa)

If you usually charge wirelessly:

  • Connect the charging case with a Lightning cable and adapter.
  • Wait 15–30 minutes and observe if the case or AirPods begin charging.

If you normally charge with a cable:

  • Place the case on a Qi-certified wireless charger with the status light facing up.
  • Align it properly to ensure contact with the coil.

If one method works and the other doesn’t, the issue may be with the charging port or wireless coil.

Update the Firmware

AirPods firmware updates automatically when connected to a device and charging near it.

To Trigger a Firmware Update
  1. Connect the case to power with the AirPods inside.
  2. Keep it close to a paired iPhone or iPad with an internet connection.
  3. Wait at least 30 minutes.

To check firmware, go to Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods (i) on iPhone or iPad.

Check for Overheating

If the AirPods or the case feel warm, they may temporarily stop charging to protect internal components.

  • Move them to a cool, dry place.
  • Wait at least 10–15 minutes before attempting to charge again.
  • Avoid leaving AirPods in direct sunlight or in a car.

Overheating can interrupt the charging circuit and cause the case to appear unresponsive.

Test With Another Power Source

Try connecting to:

  • A different wall outlet.
  • A laptop USB port.
  • A portable power bank.

If charging works elsewhere, the original power adapter or outlet may be the problem.

When the Charging Case Will Not Charge

If the case itself will not charge:

  • Try different cables and adapters first.
  • Inspect the Lightning port for dust or debris.
  • Clean it carefully using a dry, soft brush.
  • If there’s still no response or LED activity, the charging circuitry may be damaged.

When to Contact Apple Support

If none of the above steps solve the problem:

  • Your AirPods or case may have battery degradation or a hardware defect.
  • Visit Apple Support online or an Apple Store for service.
  • You can verify warranty coverage at checkcoverage.apple.com.