AirPods are “Built to be Long-Lasting” Says Apple But Critics Question Environmental Impact

The Washington Post’s Geoffrey Fowler writes about the disposable factor when it comes to Apple’s wildly popular AirPods earphones.

Fowler’s own AirPods from 2016 saw battery life last 34 months, but once your headphones run out of juice, there’s no way to fix or repair them. Apple offers “battery service” for AirPods, but realistically, there’s no way to dismantle AirPods without destroying them.

“AirPods are built to be long-lasting,” said Apple spokeswoman Lori Lodes, adding, “Apple’s products are designed with the environment in mind,” continuing to say, “Everything from the materials we select to the way we approach recycling is meant to leave the world better than we found it.”

As for your damaged or old AirPods no longer able function? “We work closely with our recyclers to ensure AirPods are properly recycled and provide support to recyclers outside of our supply chain as well,” Lodes said.



iFixit detailed to the Washington Post how difficult it was to open up AirPods and try to replace the battery. Taking AirPods apart results in headphones that cannot be put back together, as copious amounts of adhesive are used around the battery.

“There is no way we can feasibly understand taking the battery out without completely destroying the AirPod,” said Kyle Weins, chief executive of iFixit.

Back in September, Apple launched AppleCare+ for AirPods and Beats headphones, priced at $39 CAD. The coverage includes two accidental incidents at $39 CAD each, which is cheaper than buying a new set of AirPods accidentally dropped in the toilet.

How’s the battery life on your AirPods right now?