How To Tell AirPod Generation: Check the Model Number

The most reliable way to tell your AirPod generation is to find the model number and match it to Apple's official list. To identify your AirPods using your iPhone or iPad, open Settings > Bluetooth, tap the More Info button next to your AirPods, and locate the model number; on devices without iOS 14 or iPadOS 14 or later, go to Settings > General > About and scroll to your AirPods, then tap their name to see the model number.

How to tell AirPod generation with the model number

The model number is the primary, most reliable identifier for your AirPods generation. You can find it in two ways:

On your iPhone or iPad, open Settings > Bluetooth, find your AirPods, and tap the More Info button next to them.
On the physical hardware: on AirPods or AirPods Pro, the model number is on the underside of each AirPod; on AirPods Max, it is behind the cushion on the left ear cup.

Once you have the model number, refer to Apple's support page, which lists model-number groups for each AirPods family, including AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, AirPods 3, AirPods 2, AirPods 1, and AirPods Max variants, and ties those numbers to the generation and year introduced. This page is the documented source for matching the number to the exact generation. You can also check the serial number by opening the AirPods case lid, going to Settings > General > About on iPhone or iPad, scrolling to your AirPods, tapping their name, then visiting Apple's official website and using the 'Check Coverage' feature to see the model and generation. Physical design also differs: first-generation AirPods have a longer stem and no silicone ear tips; second-generation AirPods have an optional wireless charging case with an LED indicator on the front of the case; AirPods Pro have a streamlined design with silicone ear tips and a wider, shorter case; AirPods Max are over-ear headphones with a distinct headband design and adjustable ear cups.

What to do if you use an Android device

Google's official documentation covers only pairing and connecting AirPods, not generation identification. To pair on Android, open Settings > Bluetooth, choose Pair new device, open the AirPods case lid, then press and hold the button on the back of the case until the light flashes white and the AirPods appear under Available devices. Since Android does not provide a menu path for checking generation, firmware, Siri, wireless charging, or noise cancellation, you must use the physical model number method instead: read the model number directly from the underside of each AirPod or behind the AirPods Max ear cushion, then match it to Apple's support page.

Why firmware and features are not reliable identifiers

You can check the firmware version by ensuring AirPods are connected, going to Settings > General > About on iPhone or iPad, finding your AirPods listed, and noting the Firmware Version to compare against the latest available firmware for each generation. Bluetooth compatibility differs by generation, and older models may not be compatible with certain devices or features introduced in newer generations; check compatibility requirements for the features you want to use to confirm the generation. Spatial Audio is a differentiating feature introduced with AirPods Pro and AirPods Max that provides a surround sound-like, three-dimensional audio experience. Relying on features like "batteries and charging" (Batteries and Charging Basics) can lead to misidentification, as these are not generation-specific identifiers on Apple's official pages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use AirPods while exercising or during workouts?

Yes, AirPods are suitable for workouts. Standard AirPods and second-generation AirPods have an IPX4 water-resistance rating, handling sweat and light splashes. AirPods Pro has an improved IPX7 rating, making it more resistant to water exposure, including shallow submersion for short periods.

Can I use AirPods Pro with a non-Apple device?

Yes, AirPods Pro can pair with any Bluetooth-enabled device, such as Android smartphones or Windows PCs. However, features like seamless device switching and Siri integration are exclusive to Apple devices.

Are AirPods waterproof or water-resistant?

AirPods are water-resistant, not waterproof. Standard AirPods and second-generation AirPods have an IPX4 rating, while AirPods Pro has an IPX7 rating. Neither is designed for full immersion.

Is there any difference in sound quality between AirPods generations?

Sound quality remains similar across generations, though second-generation AirPods and AirPods Pro include improvements in audio performance, particularly bass response. AirPods Pro also offers active noise cancellation for a more immersive experience.