AirPod Pros fake?

I got AirPods Pro’s recently and the serial number on the case doesn’t match the serial number in my settings. Not only that but the serial number is the same on both earbuds. I ran the serial number from my settings on the coverage site thing and it’s real and not covered (which I already knew of). I ran the earbuds themselves but nothing popped up for the serial number. I’m super confused about whether they’re real or not. I researched for hours and they look 100% real other than the serial number being the same on the earbuds and the case serial number not matching in my settings. The packaging even matched perfectly to the real ones too.

iPhone 14 Plus

Posted on Jul 19, 2023 3:55 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 21, 2023 11:28 AM

I still think the AirPods are very doubtful, but it is impossible to be sure over internet. The only certain way to check is a visit to the Apple Store and get the pods examined in-hand by one of the Genius Bar techs.


I can think of several ways fakes could be introduced. One possible method would be genuine AirPods were probably swapped in a "purchase and return" scam which did not get noticed when the fake substitutes were returned for refund.


One thing is certain, Genuine Apple product will have a serial number on the box which matches the content. Th printed serial number on the box is usually the serial number of the charging case. The printed (on body) and electronic numbers for each component in the set should align correctly, and the serial number for each AirPod (Left/Right) will be different - but should match Apple's records for the set.

Find the serial number of your AirPods - Apple Support


Your only practical course of action to get a definitive judgement is to contact Apple Support and arrange to get the AirPods and their box inspected by Apple. If they are confirmed as counterfeit I hope you will be able to return to where you purchased them and get your money refunded.

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3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 21, 2023 11:28 AM in response to LivS04

I still think the AirPods are very doubtful, but it is impossible to be sure over internet. The only certain way to check is a visit to the Apple Store and get the pods examined in-hand by one of the Genius Bar techs.


I can think of several ways fakes could be introduced. One possible method would be genuine AirPods were probably swapped in a "purchase and return" scam which did not get noticed when the fake substitutes were returned for refund.


One thing is certain, Genuine Apple product will have a serial number on the box which matches the content. Th printed serial number on the box is usually the serial number of the charging case. The printed (on body) and electronic numbers for each component in the set should align correctly, and the serial number for each AirPod (Left/Right) will be different - but should match Apple's records for the set.

Find the serial number of your AirPods - Apple Support


Your only practical course of action to get a definitive judgement is to contact Apple Support and arrange to get the AirPods and their box inspected by Apple. If they are confirmed as counterfeit I hope you will be able to return to where you purchased them and get your money refunded.

Jul 20, 2023 3:12 AM in response to LivS04

The physical marked serial number printed on each ear pod should be different for each AirPod. Having the same number on each device, and mismatch between the electronic and printed numbers is a strong indication your "AirPods" are counterfeit and not a genuine Apple product.


If you have the opportunity to reject and return for refund I would use it, but I suspect the seller will have disappeared without trace. I'm sorry, I think you have been scammed.


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AirPod Pros fake?

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