How to tell if your AirPods are fake: Here is what to look out for
Apple is known for its high-quality, minimalistic packaging, so if the box looks poorly made, with misspelled words or flimsy material, it is a red flag.
With the increasing popularity of Apple’s AirPods, even in the streets of Nairobi, it is no surprise that counterfeit versions are flooding the market.
People nowadays prefer wireless earphones that are convenient, tangle-free, and they can listen to music in the CBD in the middle of the ongoing chaos.
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While these knockoffs may look similar, there are several key differences that can help you identify whether your AirPods are genuine or fake.
Here is what to watch for before making your purchase or when checking your own set.
1. Packaging and branding
One of the easiest ways to tell if your AirPods are fake is by inspecting the packaging.
Apple is known for its high-quality, minimalistic packaging, so if the box looks poorly made, with misspelled words or flimsy material, it is a red flag.
Fake AirPods often come in packaging that does not match Apple's pristine standards.
Additionally, examine the branding. The Apple logo should be crisp and clear; if it appears faded, off-center, or slightly blurry, your AirPods are likely counterfeit.
2. Weight and build quality
Genuine AirPods are designed with precision and high-quality materials, meaning they have a solid feel.
If the earbuds or charging case feels unusually light, hollow, or cheap, they may be fake. Pay attention to the build quality of the charging case, fake cases might have uneven seams, cheap-feeling plastic, or the back button on the case that do not click properly.
3. Sound quality
Apple AirPods are known for their high-quality sound and crisp audio.
If you notice that your AirPods sound tinny or have distorted audio, that is a major indicator of a counterfeit product.
Fake AirPods often deliver poor audio performance as they lack the advanced audio technology found in genuine models. In some cases, you might notice one earbud working fine while the other stops producing sound altogether.
4. Bluetooth pairing and connection
Authentic AirPods connect seamlessly to your Apple devices through the Bluetooth pairing process. The connection should be fast and stable, but if your AirPods have trouble connecting, frequently disconnect, or do not even appear in the Bluetooth settings at all, this could indicate that they are not legitimate.
Additionally, fake AirPods might not display the “AirPods” name in the Bluetooth menu but instead show a generic name like "Headphones" or "Unknown Device."
5. Serial number
Each pair of genuine AirPods has a unique serial number, which can be checked on Apple's website.
To find the serial number on your AirPods, open the case, and look for it on the inside of the lid or check your device settings if they are connected.
If the serial number does not appear in Apple’s system, or the AirPods do not show up as “registered” to your Apple ID, they are likely counterfeit.
6. Price
While deals are tempting, one of the most obvious red flags when purchasing AirPods is the price.
If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Apple’s genuine AirPods, whether standard or Pro models, have a set price range.
If you are seeing a significant discount on a new pair, particularly from unfamiliar or untrustworthy sellers, it is a good idea to be cautious.
Prices usually range from Sh. 25,000 to Sh.40,000.
7. Touch controls
Genuine AirPods have sensitive touch controls that allow you to pause, play, skip tracks, and even summon Siri with a double tap or press.
Fake versions, however, often lack this functionality or have touch-sensitive areas that do not respond as well. Testing the touch controls is a simple and effective way to determine authenticity.
8. Apple’s ‘find my’ feature
Real AirPods are linked to your Apple ID and can be tracked through Apple’s “Find My” app. If you can not locate your AirPods in the app, or the tracking feature does not work as expected, it is another clear sign that your AirPods may not be genuine.
As AirPods continue to be one of the most sought-after tech accessories, counterfeit models are becoming increasingly sophisticated. However, with these simple checks, you can quickly determine whether your AirPods are authentic or fake.
When in doubt, always purchase directly from an authorised Apple retailer or the Apple website to ensure you are getting a genuine product and value for your money.
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