Several AirPods and AirPods Pro users are reporting that they see one of the earbuds to show a red exclamation point. This article explains how you can fix when you notice the red exclamation mark next to your left or right AirPod on the connection screen when checking the status, instead of the left or right indicator letter.
This problem may affect AirPods and AirPods Pro. It seems that this is a minor issue and does not affect the sound or the charge. Users seeing this red exclamation point report no issue, the AirPods are working as expected. But still, you may find this annoying. And of course, you may want to get rid of them.
āRed exclamation pointsā error fix
Please try each step until your issue is fixed:
1. Clean if necessary. There may be some lint, dirt or debris in the charging case. Check the bottom connector. Do you see any debris? Try cleaning the contacts with a dry tissue.
2. Restart your iPhone 18 Pro. Here is how:
- Simultaneously press and hold the side button and either volume button until the sliders appear, then drag the Power Off slider.
3. Update your iPhone 18 Pro. Make sure that your iPhone has the latest iOS software version. You can update your phone wirelessly if there is an update available. To check for updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update. And if there is an update, tap Update Now to update. Then follow the onscreen instructions.
4. Update your AirPods. Ensure that you update your AirPods to the latest firmware version. AirPods updates are automatic. Your AirPods will update when the following conditions are met:
- Your AirPods are in their charging case
- The case is plugged in
- Your iPhone 18 Pro is placed near the case
AirPods firmware updates may fix your issue.
5. Follow the steps below. This will reset your AirPods:
- First, we will forget the AirPods. On your iPhone 18 Pro, go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the blue āiā icon next to the AirPods in the devices list
- Tap Forget This Device, you will see a prompt, tap Forget Device
- Put the AirPods in the charging case and close its lid and wait about 30 seconds and after that open the lid
- With the lid open, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until you see the status light flashing white (it will flash amber first then white so wait). For AirPods 4 models, AirPods 5 models, and AirPods Pro 3, double-tap the front of the case while the status light is on, double-tap again when the status light flashes white. When the status light flashes faster, double-tap a third time, until the status light flashes amber, then flashes white.
- Now reconnect your AirPods by using your iPhone. Place your AirPods close to your iPhone. Then follow the instructions on your screen.
6. Reset network settings on your iPhone. Please note that doing so will erase your network settings like your Wi-Fi password etc. To do that go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
If your issue is still not fixed, contact Apple. You may want to make a Genius Bar reservation to explain the problem. You may have a hardware problem.
