How Do I Know What Generation My AirPods Are?

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Understanding the specific generation of your AirPods is crucial for various reasons, from ensuring compatibility with the latest software updates and features to troubleshooting potential issues or even determining their resale value. While Apple has made efforts to differentiate their product lines, the visual distinctions between certain AirPods generations can be subtle. This guide will walk you through the most reliable methods to identify which generation of AirPods you possess, ensuring you have accurate information for all your accessory and software needs.

Identifying Your AirPods: A Multi-faceted Approach

Apple’s AirPods have evolved significantly since their initial release, with each generation introducing improvements in battery life, audio quality, connectivity, and additional features like Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode. Discerning between them requires a systematic approach, utilizing a combination of physical inspection, software information, and even packaging details.

Physical Inspection: The First Line of Defense

The most immediate way to get clues about your AirPods’ generation is through visual examination. While subtle, certain design elements have changed over time.

AirPods (1st Generation)

  • Charging Case: The original AirPods charging case is characterized by a smooth, rounded design with a single LED indicator light located on the front of the case. There is no “Set up” button on the back of the case. The charging port at the bottom is a Lightning port.
  • Earbuds: The earbuds themselves are largely consistent in design across early generations. However, the 1st generation earbuds lack the “Remove AirPods” text etched on the bottom stem that is present on later models.

AirPods (2nd Generation)

  • Charging Case: The 2nd generation AirPods are available with two types of charging cases. One is identical to the 1st generation case, featuring a front LED indicator and a Lightning port. The second, and more significant, upgrade is the wireless charging case. This case looks identical to the standard case but supports Qi-certified wireless charging and has its LED indicator moved to the front of the case. Critically, the wireless charging case will have a small status light on the front. Both cases have a “Setup” button on the back.
  • Earbuds: The earbuds are visually indistinguishable from the 1st generation.

AirPods Pro (1st Generation)

  • Charging Case: The AirPods Pro charging case is slightly wider and shorter than the standard AirPods case. The most significant visual difference is the inclusion of a speaker grille on the bottom and a lanyard loop on the side. The LED indicator is located on the front of the case. It also features a “Setup” button on the back.
  • Earbuds: The AirPods Pro earbuds feature a distinct in-ear design with silicone ear tips for a more secure and customizable fit. The stems are shorter than standard AirPods, and they incorporate pressure sensors for controls.

AirPods (3rd Generation)

  • Charging Case: The 3rd generation AirPods charging case adopts a design similar to the AirPods Pro case, being shorter and wider than the original AirPods cases. It features a speaker at the bottom for Find My alerts and a lanyard loop on the side. The LED indicator is located on the front of the case. It supports MagSafe and wireless charging and has a “Setup” button on the back.
  • Earbuds: The 3rd generation earbuds have a redesigned shape that is shorter and contoured, fitting more snugly in the ear. They lack ear tips but have a more ergonomic design. The stems are also shorter and incorporate touch controls.

AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

  • Charging Case: The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) charging case shares the same general form factor as the 1st generation Pro case, with a speaker grille on the bottom and a lanyard loop. However, a key new feature is the addition of a small speaker on the side of the case to aid in locating it with Find My. The LED indicator is also located on the front. Crucially, the 2nd generation Pro case has a built-in speaker at the bottom and a lanyard loop.
  • Earbuds: The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) earbuds retain the in-ear design with silicone ear tips. The stems are shorter and feature improved touch controls for volume adjustment.

Software Sleuthing: The Definitive Answer

While physical clues can offer a strong indication, the most accurate and definitive method to determine your AirPods’ generation is by checking the information directly from your connected Apple device.

Via an iPhone or iPad

  1. Connect Your AirPods: Ensure your AirPods are connected to your iPhone or iPad. If they are in the case, open the lid near your device.

  2. Navigate to Settings: Open the “Settings” app on your device.

  3. Access Bluetooth Settings: Tap on “Bluetooth.”

  4. Locate Your AirPods: Find your AirPods in the list of connected devices. Tap the “i” (information) icon next to their name.

  5. View Information: Scroll down. You will see details like “Version” and “Model Number.”

    • AirPods (1st Gen): Model Number A1523, A1748
    • AirPods (2nd Gen): Model Number A2032, A2031
    • AirPods Pro (1st Gen): Model Number A2084, A2083
    • AirPods (3rd Gen): Model Number A2565, A2564
    • AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): Model Number A2931, A2699, A2698

    The “Version” field will indicate the firmware version, which is not directly tied to the generation but can be useful for troubleshooting.

Via a Mac

  1. Connect Your AirPods: Ensure your AirPods are connected to your Mac.
  2. Open System Settings (or System Preferences): Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select “System Settings” (on macOS Ventura and later) or “System Preferences” (on older macOS versions).
  3. Navigate to Bluetooth: Click on “Bluetooth.”
  4. Locate Your AirPods: Find your AirPods in the list of connected devices.
  5. Click “Details” or “Options”: Click the “i” icon or “Options” button next to your AirPods’ name.
  6. View Information: In the pop-up window, you will find the Model Number, which is the definitive identifier for your AirPods generation.

Examining the Packaging and Documentation

If you still have the original packaging for your AirPods, it can often provide the necessary information.

  • The Box: The AirPods box typically lists the model name and number. Look for a label on the exterior of the box, usually on the underside or back. This label will contain a model number (e.g., MMEF2LL/A for 1st Gen AirPods) and often a more specific model identifier that corresponds to the generations listed above.
  • Instruction Manuals/Documentation: Any included paperwork within the box will also detail the product’s specifications and model information.

Understanding the Model Numbers: A Deeper Dive

Apple uses specific model numbers to differentiate its AirPods. While the physical and software methods are generally sufficient, knowing these numbers can be helpful for specific searches or when contacting Apple support.

  • AirPods (1st Generation):
    • Earbuds: A1523 (Left), A1748 (Right)
    • Charging Case: A1602
  • AirPods (2nd Generation):
    • Earbuds: A2032 (Left), A2031 (Right)
    • Charging Case (Standard): A1602
    • Charging Case (Wireless): A2032
  • AirPods Pro (1st Generation):
    • Earbuds: A2084 (Left), A2083 (Right)
    • Charging Case: A2190
  • AirPods (3rd Generation):
    • Earbuds: A2565 (Left), A2564 (Right)
    • Charging Case (MagSafe Charging Case): A2564
    • Charging Case (Lightning Charging Case): A2700
  • AirPods Pro (2nd Generation):
    • Earbuds: A2931 (Left), A2699 (Right)
    • Charging Case: A2700

It’s important to note that the model numbers for the earbuds can sometimes differ slightly between left and right units, but the primary identifier for the generation usually pertains to the design and features of the earbuds and their associated charging case.

Why Does It Matter?

Knowing your AirPods generation is not just an academic exercise. It impacts:

  • Feature Access: Newer generations often come with enhanced audio codecs, improved ANC and Transparency modes, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, and better battery management.
  • Software Updates: While all AirPods receive firmware updates for bug fixes and performance improvements, access to new software-driven features is generation-specific.
  • Compatibility: Certain accessories or third-party apps might be optimized for specific AirPods generations.
  • Troubleshooting: When seeking support from Apple or troubleshooting an issue, providing the correct generation helps diagnose problems more efficiently.
  • Resale Value: If you plan to sell your AirPods, knowing their generation accurately represents their capabilities and market value.

By employing these methods – careful physical inspection, diligent software checks, and a review of your original packaging – you can confidently determine the generation of your AirPods, ensuring you are always up-to-date and well-informed about your Apple audio devices.

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