Have you lost your AirPod case and don’t know where to start looking? Don’t worry! Losing such a small accessory is common, but with the right tools and steps, you can find it quickly. This guide explains all the ways to locate your AirPod case, even if it’s offline or out of battery, and includes tips to prevent losing it again.
Why People Lose Their AirPod Case
1. Misplacing It at Home or Work
AirPod cases are small and often misplaced due to their size and portability. Here are some common situations where they can get lost:
- Under couch cushions or behind furniture.
- Inside desk drawers or on cluttered workspaces.
- In gym bags or jacket pockets.
2. Forgetting It in Public Places
Public spaces like cafés, gyms, and transportation are frequent places where AirPod cases are forgotten. You might leave it:
- On a café table after finishing coffee.
- On workout benches or treadmills at the gym.
- In a taxi, bus, or train during a commute.
3. Losing It While Traveling
Traveling can be hectic, and small items like AirPod cases are easy to lose. Some common situations include:
- Leaving it in a plane’s seat pocket.
- Forgetting it at airport security checks.
- Misplacing it in a hotel room or Airbnb.
How to Find Your AirPod Case
1. Use the Find My App
Apple’s Find My App is the most effective way to track your AirPod case. If your AirPod case is connected to your iPhone or iPad, you can locate it using this app.
Steps:
- Open the Find My App on your device.
- Select your AirPods from the device list.
- Check the map to see the current or last known location of your AirPod case.
- If the case is nearby and charged, tap Play Sound to hear a beeping noise.
Tip: If you have AirPods Pro (2nd generation), the case itself has a built-in speaker, making it easier to find.
2. Check the Last Known Location
If your AirPod case is offline or out of battery, the Find My App will still show its last recorded location. Use this as a starting point to retrace your steps.
For Example:
- If the last location is your workplace, search around your desk, meeting rooms, or any other areas you visited.
- If it was left at a café, revisit the location and ask the staff if someone turned it in.
3. Use Bluetooth Tracking
If your AirPods or case were recently connected to your phone via Bluetooth, you can use signal strength to help locate it. Apps like Tile or AirTag can also assist in tracking.
Steps to Use Bluetooth Tracking:
- Open the tracking app on your phone.
- Walk around and check the signal strength.
- A stronger signal indicates you’re getting closer to the case.
Note: Bluetooth tracking is effective within a 30-100 feet range, depending on your environment.
What to Do If Your AirPod Case Is Dead
If your AirPod case is completely out of battery, it cannot be actively tracked. However, you can still try these methods:
- Retrace Your Steps: Think about where you last used or placed the case.
- Search Common Hiding Spots: Look under car seats, inside bags, or in clothing pockets.
- Ask for Help: Contact the lost-and-found department of any public place you visit. Many people turn in items like AirPod cases.
How to Avoid Losing Your AirPod Case Again
1. Attach a Tracking Device
Adding a small tracker like an AirTag or Tile Mate to your AirPod case makes it much easier to locate. These trackers work with apps to show the case’s location, even when it’s offline.
2. Make Your AirPod Case Stand Out
Customizing your case can make it easier to spot. Consider:
- Using bright-colored or glow-in-the-dark case covers.
- Adding stickers or engraving your initials on the case.
3. Keep It in a Safe Spot
Developing simple habits can save you from losing your AirPod case:
- Always store your case in the same spot at home, like a drawer or shelf.
- Use a small pouch to keep your case attached to your keys or bag.
Conclusion
Losing your AirPod case is inconvenient, but with tools like the Find My App, Bluetooth tracking, and good organizational habits, you can easily locate it or avoid losing it again. If you often misplace small items, consider investing in a tracker or customizing your AirPod case to make it easier to spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find my AirPod case without the AirPods inside?
Yes, you can locate the case using the Find My App if it has some battery and was connected to your device before being lost.
How far can I track my AirPod case?
Bluetooth tracking typically works within 30 feet indoors and up to 100 feet outdoors. The Find My App can locate the case over greater distances if it’s online.
What should I do if the AirPod case doesn’t show up on Find My?
Ensure that the Find My App was enabled before losing your case. If not, manual searching and retracing your steps are the only options.
Can Apple help recover a lost AirPod case?
Apple doesn’t provide tracking services, but they can guide you on purchasing a replacement.
Are there apps other than Find My to track my AirPod case?
Yes, if you’ve attached a third-party tracker like Tile or Chipolo, their apps can help you locate your case.