If you like listening to music, watching movies, or speaking with others using wireless earbuds, Apple’s AirPods are one of the best products you can buy today.
AirPods are a minimalistic, user-friendly product that integrates seamlessly into your iPhone environment. You can also use them with your MacBook, iPad, or iMac.
They’re even compatible with Android phones.
Although AirPods are relatively easy to use and reliable, some problems do tend to creep up on users. The first thing you’ll notice is the flashing lights that you see, which can be one of several different colors. Each one signifies a specific issue to consider.
If you see your AirPods flashing orange, you’ll need to take some steps to correct the situation.
Why Are My Airpods Blinking Orange? [SOLVED]
When your AirPods are blinking orange, it means that you need to do the setup with the earbuds again. Some people confuse that notification with the solid orange light, indicating there is less than one full charge left to use. You’ll see them flash white when you’ve corrected the issue.
Although it can be an annoyance to see a blinking orange light on your AirPods, the setup process is relatively straightforward.
- Go to the home screen on your iPhone.
- Open the lid on the case while the AirPods remain inside.
- Place the container next to your phone.
- You should see a notification appear on your screen. Tap the Connect button that appears.
- If you haven’t set up Siri on your device, you’ll get guided through the process on AirPods Pro and Second-Generation products to complete the connection.
- Once you complete all the prompts, you should be ready to use the AirPods again.
Once you’ve completed those six steps, you should see the orange blinking light replaced with a white one.
After you’ve taken those steps, here are some additional tips that can help you maximize the use of Apple’s version of the earbuds, including if you’re using the AirPods Pro.
■ Change the Name of Your AirPods
Your AirPods have a default name when you connect them to your device. You can personalize them by going to your Bluetooth settings.
After looking at the available devices list, select the blue “I” icon inside a circle next to the AirPods through Under My Devices.
Once you’ve reached the menu screen, you can tap on “Name” to change what they’re called on your phone.
■ Pair to Non-Ios Devices
When you need to pair the AirPods to an Android device or a product not using iOS, the first step is to place the earbuds back in their case and close the lid.
After it clicks shut, you can flip it open again. Hold the button on the case’s bottom until the LED light starts blinking white. You can go to the Bluetooth devices list to find the AirPods to finish the connection.
■ Find Your AirPods
The problem with AirPods is that they can be a bit slippery and want to fall out of your ears. It’s a concern because this product costs more than your average set of Bluetooth earbuds.
Each new Apple device comes with the technology to locate your missing products, even if they get turned off or the battery dies.
You can use the Find My iPhone feature to use your AirPods if they go missing. The app is available through iCloud or the App Store.
Airpods Pro vs. AirPods 2
When you’re in the market for a set of AirPods, you can choose something from the first generation, the AirPods Pro, or the pair from the second generation.
If we compare the AirPods Pro with the latest version, you’ll find that each has some similarities and differences that can lead to some unique user pros and cons.
Here’s a closer look at what to expect when using these products.
Feature: | Apple AirPods Pro | Apple AirPods Second-Gen |
Audio Performance: | • The AirPods Pro deliver a robust audio performance with excellent consistency. | • You’ll receive a crisp, clear audio signal with the 2nd generation AirPods, offering close to an audiophile experience. |
Siri Access: | • The AirPods Pro offers hands-free Siri access if users have it set up on their device. | • The AirPods Second-Gen offers hands-free Siri access if users have it set up on their device. |
Controls: | • With the AirPods Pro, you’ll have no on-ear volume controls to use. • The EQ and ANC aren’t adjustable. | • You have access to limited on-ear controls with the second generation, but the loose canal seal can impact the audio. |
Water Resistance: | • When you purchase the AirPods Pro, you have a product rated to withstand a water splash. | • The AirPods 2nd-Gen has no IP rating assigned for water resistance. • They should not get wet. |
Microphone Clarity: | • This product delivers an average result with microphone clarity, although the active noise cancelation does make up for some of the loss. | • You receive solid microphone clarity with this product, providing the same experience as talking into a cellular device. |
Charging and Pairing: | • You’ll receive a wireless charging case with a simplified pairing process that works across most Bluetooth options. | • Apple improved the charging case for the second-generation AirPods model to reduce the issues with the blinking orange light. |
Cost (2021): | • Retails for $197 online. | • Retails for $149.99 online. |
- Active Noise Cancellation
- IPX4
- Custom Speaker Driver
- High Dynamic Range Amp
- H1 Chip
- Force Sensor to Go Over to Transparency Mode
- Up to 4.5 Hours of Listening Time
- More Than 24 Hours of Battery Life
- Charging Case
- 3 Sizes of Silicone Tips (Large, Medium, Small)
If you’re concerned with fit and fitness, the Apple AirPods Pro is the best choice. It offers a minimal IP rating for moisture resistance while maintaining a secure in-ear fit.
When you sit and listen to music at work or need a product to take calls while moving between destinations, the 2nd Generation Apple AirPods is the better investment. The audio and wireless charging case are more efficient, but it comes at the expense of a looser in-ear fit.
The AirPods Pro deliver an authentic wireless experience that is vastly superior to the standard product. It justifies the extra cost.
If you’re on a budget, the First or Second Generation AirPods still deliver an upgraded experience when compared to the premium models from other brands.
Features That Come with the Apple AirPods Pro
The Apple AirPods Pro are currently the best earbuds in the Bluetooth lineup for those who need portable listening and speaking support.
Part of the reason they’re such an excellent investment is that several premium features come with the product.
1. Active Noise Canceling
When you wear the AirPods Pro, you can have them block external noises that could interrupt your listening experience.
It uses software, hardware, and microphone supports to monitor and block environmental sounds, removing the perpetual buzz that can distract you from your streaming audio.
The AirPods Pro also comes with a secondary internal microphone to cancel the internal sounds by listening inside the ear.
2. Audio Transparency Mode
This feature lets the AirPods Pro help you make calls. It improves the quality of what you hear while providing a transparent environment.
It eliminates the active noise canceling, so that you can listen to someone or hear traffic while going about the day’s business.
3. The H1 Chip
The AirPods Pro do such a great job because of the technology Apple incorporated into the earbuds. With the H1 chip, you can set it up with any Mac, iPad, or iPhone.
“The new Apple-designed H1 chip, developed specifically for headphones, delivers performance efficiencies, faster connect times, more talk time, and the convenience of hands-free ‘Hey Siri.’”
Apple used the H1 chip to replace the W1 chip that was in the first-generation AirPods. It supports better synchronization to pick up and connect calls faster.
You can also switch between different Apple devices as the audio source, such as an Apple Watch and iPhone, while hiking.
The H1 chip also supports Bluetooth 5.0 while reducing latency by almost 30% compared to the original version.
4. Force Sensor
The original AirPods used a tapping gesture that was a bit strange for users to implement. If you upgrade to the Pro version, a force sensor replaces the awkwardness.
It doesn’t require much pressure to activate. If you squeeze them once to play or pause the audio, you’ll get the result you want. A long hold switches the noise canceling feature on or off.
You can also squeeze the AirPods Pro to skip a track or press it three times to return.
5. Sweat Resistance
This feature is the most questionable one. Although the AirPods Pro don’t come with a water-resistance rating, Apple says they are sweat-resistant.
Most people find that they can go to the gym or enjoy a long run without any problems, but you still might want to take precautions to preserve your investment.
6. USB-C Connection
The AirPods Pro use a USB-C connection, just like the iPhone 11 and similar models. It’s an excellent feature for those who like to use the latest hardware from Apple.
Although it would be helpful to have a companion app for the product, it’s still a fantastic option for anyone who wants access to wireless audio in virtually any situation.
Airpods Not Working? Additional Troubleshooting Options!
If your AirPods aren’t working as they should, you can take several steps wherever you are to correct the issue. Most problems can get resolved within a couple of minutes when you know what process to follow.
■ What If My Left or Right AirPod Doesn’t Work?
If one of your AirPods isn’t playing audio, you should place them both into the charging case and ensure they have a power connection. If one still doesn’t work, you’ll need to reset your product by taking the following steps.
- Open your iOS device, go to the Settings menu, and select Bluetooth.
- Tap on the “I” icon next to the AirPods.
- Choose Forget This Device and confirm.
- Place both AirPods in the charging case. After closing the lid, wait 30 seconds before opening it again.
- Press and hold the setup button until the status light flashes white.
- Reconnect the AirPods by bringing them close to the device. Open the lid, then follow the steps listed on the screen.
- Test both AirPods to ensure they now work.
You might need to clean the speaker and microphone meshes to resolve the problem. If you continue to need help, Apple Support can provide assistance.
■ Why Won’t My AirPods Connect?
If your AirPods aren’t connecting to your iOS or iPadOS device, the first step is to ensure that you’re running the latest version of compatible software. Once you’ve completed the update, you can follow these steps to resolve the issue.
- Open your Settings menu to ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on the iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch.
- Put the AirPods into their charging case and verify that the battery is charging.
- Go to the Bluetooth menu to see if they’re connected and selected as your audio device. If they aren’t connected, close the lid for 15 seconds before opening it again.
- Hold the setup button for up to ten seconds until the status light flashes white.
- Keep the case next to your device, following the on-screen steps.
■ How Come My AirPods Pro Make Crackling Sounds?
If your AirPods Pro have excessive static or make crackling sounds during use, the issue likely involves a software discrepancy. You’ll need to ensure that your device is using the latest operating system before proceeding.
Once the OS is updated, check to see that there aren’t any obstructions or wireless interference that could be contributing to the issue. One of the most common causes of this problem is a microwave operating.
Then try listening to the audio from a different app
Are AirPods Technology a Reasonable Investment to Consider?
Even if you need to occasionally manage the blinking orange light issue with AirPods, the investment in this product is worth considering.
The AirPods Pro are some of the best earbuds you can find out there today. Your audio will be crisp and clear, delivering the sounds from your favorite playlists, shows, or movies with incredible accuracy.
I take my AirPods everywhere, and I’m sure you will too!