One of the biggest frustrations for earbuds owners is losing or damaging the ear tips. One minor casualty can ruin the entire experience. Fortunately for AirPods Pro users, it turns out that Apple provides free replacement tips using a simple method. This trick was discovered by users on MacRumors’ forums and later reported by the website itself. User boshii was the first person to point this out and adds that he had AppleCare+ included in his AirPods Pro purchase. He continues by explaining how others can take advantage of the cost-free replacement. The other condition, aside from owning AppleCare+, is doing every step on a desktop computer. It’s a useful trick that can save you a few bucks and loads of headaches. It also prevents you from searching online for third-party ear tips that might not fit on the earbuds or last that long.
More People Chime In
Another user, Doebldodl, proved that this technique definitely works and even provided a short unboxing of the package he received in the mail: There’s a lot of wasted cardboard and paper, but he did indeed get the replacement ear tips he was expecting through AppleCare+. On top of that, there’s no need to send your original AirPods Pro back. The notice “No part return required” appears after a successful replacement request. While some view this as good aftersales treatment from Apple, others pointed out that the company has more to gain by providing free ear tips to customers:
The Cost of No AppleCare+
So, how much would non-AppleCare+ users have to pay for replacement tips? Apple’s support page lists replacement ear tips at $3.95 per pair. That’s a pretty penny for a basic accessory, but necessary for those without premium aftersales support. Either way, it’s best to take extra care of your AirPods Pro and its tips. If you simply don’t want to deal with this potential issue however, go for the regular AirPods and their lack of removable ear tips.
