The innovation of wireless technology has improved and streamlined many facets of daily life, and one such manifestation of this are Apple AirPods. AirPods being small, wireless earbuds created by Apple Inc., have revolutionised how individuals interact with audio devices. Adding on to that, the convenience of a charging case that can recharge the AirPods right in your pocket is just the cherry on top. This article aims to address an essential question many AirPods users often contemplate; should I charge my AirPod case separately?
Understanding the AirPods Charging System
The AirPods charging system comprises a built-in rechargeable lithion-ion battery, in both the ear buds and case. However, knowing the finer details about this system can greatly help the users in maintaining their devices.
The AirPods themselves house a tiny battery each, capable of keeping them powered for hours. On a single charge, AirPods can deliver up to 5 hours of listening time and 3 hours of talk time. Meanwhile, the charging case adds multiple charges for more than 24 hours of listening time, or 18 hours of talk time. The case itself simply uses a lightning connector for recharging.
The design enables the AirPods to automatically begin charging the moment they’re placed in the case. So, the case serves as not just a safe storage case but also a portable charging unit.
How to Charge your AirPods and AirPod Case
Charging your AirPods and their case is relatively straightforward. To charge your AirPods, simply place them back in the case. A rapid connect feature will show you a pop-up window on your device, illustrating the current battery life of both the AirPods and the case.
To charge the AirPods case, ensure the AirPods are in the case, then close the lid. Connect your lightning cable to the Lightning connector on the case, and the other end to a USB power source. If the case is charging, the light inside the case changes from amber to green when fully charged.
Charging AirPods and Case together vs separately
Whether to charge your AirPods and case together or separately essentially comes down to personal convenience and usage patterns. However, understanding the pros and cons of each method can lead to a more optimal charging routine.
Charging together allows simultaneous recharging of both AirPods and the case. This means that your AirPods and case are always ready for use, making this method more convenient for those who use their AirPods frequently.
Charging separately can extend overall battery use between charges. You’re using the case’s battery to recharge the AirPods and then recharging the case’s battery, leading an extended overall battery life every time you charge, especially if you’re not using your AirPods while the case is recharging.
Common Questions about Charging AirPods and Case separately
Some of the most common questions about charging AirPods and their case separately usually revolve around potential overcharging and charging speeds.
Overcharging is not a concern as Apple designed their charging system with built-in protections to prevent battery damage, which means no matter how long you leave your AirPods case on charge, it won’t overcharge once it reaches 100%.
The charging speed varies depending on the condition of the battery and the power source. However, a typical charging case will take about an hour to fully charge, and charging both the case and AirPods together should not significantly affect this.
Signs your AirPods case may need a separate charge
Apple has integrated a simple way to check battery life of your AirPods and case via an on-screen prompt which displays when you open the lid near a paired iOS device. Furthermore, if your case’s battery is lower than 20%, the LED light will be amber instead of green.
If your case constantly dies before your AirPods, or if you notice the case isn’t charging your AirPods as much as it should, these could be evident signs that you may need to charge your AirPods case separately.
How to maintain a good AirPods and AirPods case charging routine
Frequent charging cycles can shortening the battery lifespan over time, so some best practices involves regularly charging your devices but also letting them slightly discharge every now and then.
Maximize your usage between charges, and remember to keep both your AirPods and charging case clean and dry. Doing so ensures optimal charging contact and can elongate the lifespan of both your AirPods and their charging case.
Conclusion
Whether you decide to charge your AirPods case separately or together with your AirPods ultimately comes down to your usage and convenience. While both methods have their advantages, the primary goal is to maintain a good charging routine that suits your individual needs, while preserving the health and lifespan of your AirPods and their charging case. The good news is, with Apple’s intelligent design, you won’t risk overcharging or damaging the case, no matter which method you choose. When it’s all said and done, the power truly is in your hands.
