Can AirPods Pro Charge Wirelessly? Yes, and Here’s Everything You Need to Know!

The short answer? Absolutely, AirPods Pro can be charged wirelessly! Both the original AirPods Pro and the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are compatible with Qi-certified wireless charging pads. But, like a fine wine, the story is much richer and more nuanced than just that simple affirmative. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of wirelessly juicing up your sonic companions.

Wireless Charging: A Cordless Revolution

Understanding Qi Wireless Charging

The magic behind wirelessly charging your AirPods Pro lies in a technology called Qi (pronounced “chee”) wireless charging. Qi is a global standard for inductive charging, meaning it uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy from a charging pad to a compatible device, in this case, your AirPods Pro charging case. It’s the same technology that powers many modern smartphones and other wireless accessories.

Think of it like this: your charging pad emits an electromagnetic field, and when you place your AirPods Pro charging case on it, a coil inside the case interacts with that field to generate electricity, which then charges the battery. No cables, no fuss!

Identifying the Wireless Charging Case

Here’s a simple trick to determine if your AirPods Pro case supports wireless charging: look for the lightning bolt icon on the bottom of the case. This is the universal symbol that indicates wireless charging compatibility. All AirPods Pro models come with this, but if you have an older generation of regular AirPods, you’ll need to ensure the case has this symbol, as some older models required a separate wireless charging case purchase.

Optimizing Your Wireless Charging Experience

Choosing the Right Wireless Charger

Not all wireless chargers are created equal. While any Qi-certified charger will technically work with your AirPods Pro, some are simply better than others. Here’s what to look for:

• Power Output: AirPods Pro don’t require high wattage. A 5W charger is perfectly adequate and won’t overheat the case. Higher wattage chargers will work, but won’t necessarily charge your AirPods Pro faster.
• Charging Speed: Wireless charging is generally slower than wired charging. Expect a full charge to take longer compared to using a Lightning cable.
• Brand Reputation: Stick to reputable brands known for producing quality chargers with safety features. Anker, Belkin, and Mophie are popular and reliable choices.
• Design: Consider the charger’s design and how well it fits into your setup. Some chargers are flat pads, while others are stands that allow you to view your AirPods Pro case while it charges.

Best Practices for Wireless Charging

To get the most out of wireless charging your AirPods Pro, keep these tips in mind:

• Proper Alignment: Ensure the charging case is centered on the charging pad. Misalignment can reduce charging efficiency or prevent charging altogether.
• Remove Obstructions: Make sure there are no objects between the case and the charger, such as metal pieces or thick case covers.
• Monitor Temperature: While wireless charging can generate some heat, excessively high temperatures can damage the battery. If the case feels unusually hot, remove it from the charger.
• Patience is Key: As mentioned earlier, wireless charging is slower than wired charging. Don’t expect a rapid charge.
• Check the Charging Light: The LED indicator on the front of the AirPods Pro case will light up to indicate charging status. Green means fully charged, amber means charging, and no light means either the case isn’t properly aligned or there is a charging issue.

Benefits of Wireless Charging

Why bother with wireless charging when you can just plug in a cable? Here are some compelling reasons:

• Convenience: No more fumbling with cables! Simply place the case on the charging pad.
• Reduced Wear and Tear: Frequent plugging and unplugging can damage the Lightning port over time. Wireless charging eliminates this issue.
• Tidy Setup: Wireless charging eliminates cable clutter, creating a cleaner and more organized workspace.
• Compatibility: The Qi standard is widely supported, meaning you can use the same charger for your AirPods Pro and other devices, like your smartphone.

AirPods Pro Wireless Charging FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to address common concerns and provide even more in-depth information:

1. Does wireless charging damage my AirPods Pro battery?

Modern lithium-ion batteries, like the one in your AirPods Pro case, are designed to handle wireless charging without significant degradation. While heat can negatively impact battery life over the long term, a quality Qi-certified charger with proper power management will minimize heat generation. Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat.

2. How long does it take to wirelessly charge AirPods Pro?

Wireless charging typically takes longer than wired charging. Expect a full charge to take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the charger’s wattage and the initial battery level.

3. Can I use a phone’s reverse wireless charging to charge my AirPods Pro?

Yes, if your smartphone supports reverse wireless charging (also known as Wireless PowerShare), you can use it to charge your AirPods Pro case. Simply place the AirPods Pro case on the back of your phone, ensuring it’s properly aligned with the charging area. However, this method is typically slower than using a dedicated wireless charging pad and can drain your phone’s battery.

4. What if my AirPods Pro aren’t charging wirelessly?

First, ensure the charging case is properly aligned on the charging pad. Also, check that there are no obstructions between the case and the charger. Try a different charger to rule out a faulty charger. If the issue persists, try cleaning the charging case and the charging pad. If none of these steps work, there may be a hardware issue, and you should contact Apple Support.

5. Can I charge my AirPods Pro with a MagSafe charger?

Yes, MagSafe chargers are Qi-compatible and will charge your AirPods Pro. However, the magnetic alignment feature of MagSafe chargers is designed for iPhones, so the AirPods Pro case won’t magnetically snap into place. It will still charge as long as it’s properly aligned on the charging surface.

6. Are there any downsides to wireless charging my AirPods Pro?

The main downside is the slower charging speed compared to wired charging. Additionally, some cheaper wireless chargers may generate more heat, which could potentially impact battery life over time.

7. Do all AirPods Pro cases support wireless charging?

Yes, all AirPods Pro charging cases support wireless charging. The original AirPods (1st and 2nd generation) had optional wireless charging cases, but all AirPods Pro models come standard with this feature.

8. Can I use a third-party case on my AirPods Pro case and still charge wirelessly?

Yes, most thin to medium-thickness cases designed for AirPods Pro will allow wireless charging to work without issue. However, very thick or metallic cases may interfere with the charging process.

9. Is it safe to leave my AirPods Pro on the wireless charger overnight?

Yes, it’s generally safe to leave your AirPods Pro on a wireless charger overnight. Modern charging circuits are designed to prevent overcharging and will stop charging the battery once it’s full.

10. How do I know when my AirPods Pro are fully charged on a wireless charger?

The LED indicator on the front of the AirPods Pro case will turn green when the case is fully charged. You can also check the battery status on your iPhone or iPad by opening the charging case near your device.

11. Does wireless charging affect the battery health of my AirPods Pro in the long run?

While any charging method can eventually impact battery health, wireless charging, when done correctly with a quality charger, shouldn’t significantly degrade the battery any faster than wired charging. Avoid extreme temperatures, and use a reputable Qi-certified charger.

12. Can I wirelessly charge my AirPods Pro in a car?

Yes, if your car has a built-in Qi wireless charging pad, you can use it to charge your AirPods Pro case. Just make sure the case is properly aligned and secure to prevent it from sliding around while driving.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Cordless Future

Wireless charging offers a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to keep your AirPods Pro powered up. By understanding the technology, choosing the right charger, and following best practices, you can enjoy the benefits of a cordless lifestyle while ensuring the longevity of your favorite audio companions. So, go ahead, embrace the freedom of wireless charging and say goodbye to cable clutter!