Owen PalmerBy Owen Palmer

Updated November 2026

The phrase “airpods pro 2st generation” usually means one thing: the second-generation AirPods Pro, which Apple released as a successor to the original model. This guide shows you how to confirm which AirPods Pro you own, what separates the generations, and how to handle the problems owners most often run into. Most of the answer comes down to checking a model number and a few settings, so you can finish in a few minutes.

Confirm Which AirPods Pro Generation You Have

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro are easy to tell apart once you know where to look. The model number is the fastest check, and it is printed on the charging case and on the underside of the case lid.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Airpods Pro 2 Generation Review: Features and Performance.

  1. Open the lid of the charging case and look at the inside of the lid or the bottom of the case.
  2. Find the model number, which begins with “A” followed by four digits.
  3. Compare it against Apple’s official support page for AirPods model numbers.
  4. Alternatively, pair the earbuds with an iPhone and check Settings > Bluetooth, then tap the info icon beside the AirPods to see the model name.

If the name shows “AirPods Pro (2nd generation),” you have the model this guide covers. The USB-C version and the MagSafe version of the case both belong to this generation, but the charging port on the case is the quickest visual clue.

Understand What Changed Between Generations

Second-generation AirPods Pro kept the same basic earbud shape as the original but changed several internal parts. Apple’s published specifications describe upgraded active noise cancellation, a newer H2 chip, and improved adaptive transparency. If you are comparing your earbuds with an older pair, these are the differences worth knowing about.

Area Original AirPods Pro AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
Chip H1 H2
Noise cancellation Active noise cancellation Upgraded active noise cancellation
Case charging Lightning USB-C, with MagSafe on one version

Because the generations look nearly identical, owners often mix them up when shopping for replacement parts. Confirm the model number before you buy anything.

Fix Common Issues Owners Report

Owners of second-generation AirPods Pro most often describe three problems: one earbud cutting out, weak noise cancellation, and a case that will not charge the buds. Each usually has a simple cause.

One Earbud Disconnects or Sounds Quiet

Reset the earbuds first. Place both in the case, wait 30 seconds, then hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber and then white. Re-pair them afterward, and make sure the earbud fits snugly, since a loose seal can change the sound balance.

Noise Cancellation Feels Weak

Run the Ear Tip Fit Test in Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods info. A poor seal is the most common reason noise cancellation underperforms. Try the other ear tip sizes included in the box until the test reports a good fit.

The Case Will Not Charge the Earbuds

Clean the charging contacts inside the case and on the earbuds with a dry, soft cloth. Lint and debris are a frequent cause. Then check that the case has battery left by using the status light or the battery widget on an iPhone.

Check the Setup Before You Rely on It

After any fix, confirm everything works before you rely on the earbuds for calls or travel. Play audio, toggle noise cancellation on and off, take a short call, and test each earbud separately. If a fault continues after a reset, contact Apple Support, since hardware problems are not something you can solve at home.

A few accessories make it easier to keep second-generation AirPods Pro in good shape:

  • A soft microfiber cloth helps clear lint from the charging contacts without scratching the finish. View on Amazon
  • A protective silicone case sleeve reduces wear on the charging case during daily carrying. View on Amazon
  • A small soft-bristled brush can reach the speaker mesh and charging port without pushing debris further in. View on Amazon

Common Mistakes

  • Buying accessories based on appearance alone, since the two generations look almost identical.
  • Using liquids or compressed air to clean the earbud speaker mesh, which can push debris deeper.
  • Skipping the Ear Tip Fit Test, then blaming the noise cancellation hardware.
  • Forgetting to update iOS, since many earbud features depend on current software.
  • Resetting the earbuds repeatedly without first checking the fit and the charging contacts.

FAQ

How do I know if I have the 2nd generation AirPods Pro?

Check the model number printed inside the case lid or on the case bottom, or look under the info icon in your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings. The name should read “AirPods Pro (2nd generation).”

Can I use the same charging case for both generations?

No. Cases are model-specific, so confirm the model number before buying a replacement case.

When should I contact Apple Support?

Contact Apple Support if a reset and cleaning do not fix a problem, or if an earbud shows physical damage. A professional can diagnose hardware faults safely.

Conclusion

Identifying your AirPods Pro generation takes less than a minute and makes every later step easier. Most common problems respond to a reset, a fit test, or a clean set of charging contacts. If a fault persists, let Apple’s support team take it from there.

Ready to choose one?

Owen Palmer

About Owen Palmer

Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our brand headphones & noise cancelling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.