Apple Ends Support for AirPods Pro and iPhone 12 Service Programs

Apple has officially closed two major service programs. The programs covered sound issues for the first-generation AirPods Pro and the iPhone 12. This change was confirmed on the company’s official website. Affected devices are no longer eligible for free repairs.

The programs had already reached their three-year coverage limit for most users. According to Reuters, these initiatives were designed as quality assurance measures. They addressed specific manufacturing defects.

Details of the Discontinued Programs

The AirPods Pro program targeted crackling and static sounds. It also covered failures in Active Noise Cancellation. Units manufactured before October 2020 were eligible. Apple or authorized providers would test and replace faulty earbuds.

The program was initially set for two years. Apple later extended it to three years. This gave more customers access to support.

The iPhone 12 program addressed a faulty receiver module. This defect caused no sound during phone calls. It impacted devices made between October 2020 and April 2021. The iPhone 12 mini and 12 Pro Max were not included.

This program also saw its coverage extended. It was first announced in August 2021. The extension to three years came a year later.

What This Means for Consumers

The end of these programs shifts repair costs to consumers. Owners of these older devices must now pay for out-of-warranty service. This is a standard practice as products age beyond their support lifecycle.

For the vast majority of users, coverage had already expired. Only devices purchased from very old stock would have been affected recently. This move formalizes the end of an extended support era for these products.

Apple’s decision to end these service programs marks a natural conclusion to their product lifecycle. Customers with older devices should now consider standard repair options for any future issues with their AirPods Pro or iPhone 12 models.

Info at your fingertips

What was wrong with the original AirPods Pro?

Some units had issues with crackling or static sounds. The Active Noise Cancellation feature also sometimes failed to work correctly. This was linked to units made before October 2020.

Which iPhone 12 models had sound problems?

The standard iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro were affected. The issue was a defective receiver module that could fail. The iPhone 12 mini and 12 Pro Max were not part of the program.

Can I still get a free repair now?

No, Apple has officially ended both service programs. Repairs for these issues are now subject to standard out-of-warranty fees. The free repair window has closed.

How long were these programs active?

Both programs were active for approximately three years. The AirPods Pro program launched in October 2020. The iPhone 12 program began in August 2021.

Why did Apple end these programs?

The programs were based on a three-year coverage period from the original sale date. That time has now passed for almost all eligible devices. Ending the programs is a standard procedural step.