If you lose one AirPod, your first move should be to open the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch, or visit iCloud.com/find, to try to locate it. If the missing bud is within range, you can play a sound to help find it; if it is out of range, the Find My network can show its last known location for up to 24 hours after it last connected to your device.
What to do if you lose one AirPod
Start by opening the Find My app on your iPhone or iPad, tapping Devices, then tapping your AirPods. If the AirPods are out of the case, you may need to choose the left or right bud separately. For AirPods 4 (ANC), AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, and AirPods Pro 2 and later, you can also mark each AirPod and the case separately as lost. The W1 and H1 chips provide a reliable and fast wireless connection between your AirPods and your device. Apple says Find My network location is available for AirPods 3, AirPods 4 with ANC, AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max for up to 24 hours after they last connect to your device, even if they are not nearby.
- Open Find My and select your AirPods from the Devices list.
- If the buds are out of the case, select the left or right bud individually.
- Play a sound to locate a nearby bud, or use Lost Mode to see its location on a map and show your contact information.
- Check the map for the last known location if the AirPod is out of Bluetooth range.
How to get a replacement AirPod
If you cannot find the missing AirPod using Find My, Apple says you can order a replacement. Apple’s AirPods repair page lists a “Lost AirPod (left or right)” as a separate replacement item. Neither the Apple Limited Warranty nor AppleCare+ covers loss, so the replacement is a paid service. If you have AppleCare+ for your AirPods, you may be eligible for a reduced price on a replacement of a lost or damaged AirPod. You can order a single left or right AirPod directly from Apple or through an Apple Authorized Service Provider. You can also visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider, who can help you with issues related to your AirPods, including repairing or replacing damaged ones. The replacement bud must be the same model and generation as your existing AirPod for compatibility.
What about AirPods Max?
Apple includes AirPods Max in the Find My network support list, with up to 24 hours of location availability after the last connection. The same paid replacement process applies: if you lose one ear cup, you can purchase a replacement from Apple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the remaining AirPod still work without its pair?
Yes, the remaining AirPod can still work on its own. However, you will not experience stereo sound or features that require both buds connected.
Will the replacement AirPod be compatible with my existing AirPods?
Yes, the replacement AirPod will be compatible as long as it is the same model and generation as your existing AirPod.
How long will it take for my ordered replacement AirPod to arrive?
Delivery time depends on your location and shipping method, but it typically takes a few business days.
Can I use Find My to locate a single lost AirPod from an Android device?
No.
Does the Apple Limited Warranty cover a lost AirPod?
No. The Apple Limited Warranty covers manufacturing defects but not loss. Apple treats a lost AirPod as a paid replacement item.
Does Find My work for AirPods that are out of battery or offline?
After that window, you will not be able to see their location.
For the wider topic, see wireless audio connections.
