AirPods 4th Gen not charging/displaying light due to using a cable of higher voltage.

I have AirPods 4th Gen with ANC, and the case is from Apple. I recently used my iPad cable to charge my AirPods with the plug for my iPad on accident. Now, the AirPods won’t turn on at all, and the light won’t turn on on the case either. I have tried leaving it to charge with a normal cable, and it still doesn’t work. I am unable to get to an Apple Store and I haven’t had much luck with repair shops as they don’t fix AirPods. I suspect they may be unresponsive due to the high level of power i accidentally used. Can anyone help with maybe resetting them or something? Thank you for any help!

Posted on Feb 7, 2026 9:42 AM

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1 reply

Feb 7, 2026 10:00 AM in response to bananamilkslays

You can’t overcharge AirPods or usually damage them by using a cable or high voltage charger. They have a chip in them that controls voltage in.


I use a charger with multiple usb c ports that provide up to 65W.

none of my devices have any problems, including my AirPods.


You can damage them by using a poorly built usb c charger or cable that ignores safety features.

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AirPods 4th Gen not charging/displaying light due to using a cable of higher voltage.

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