Using AirPods can be a great way to enjoy your favorite movies, music and podcasts on the go. But losing a pair can be frustrating and expensive. The good news is that there are a number of ways to find your AirPods, even if you’ve misplaced them or they’ve fallen into the wrong hands.

There are two main methods to recover your lost earbuds: the first is using the “Find My” app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac; the second is with the help of an Apple earbud GPS tracker. Which method you choose depends on a number of factors, including the make of your AirPods, the location of your earbuds, and your Internet connection.

man hanging iphone

Photo by Miguel Tomás on Unsplash

To use the Find My app on your iPhone, you’ll need to sign in with your Apple ID and password. Once you’ve done so, you’ll be able to see a list of all the connected devices you have. Select the AirPods you’re missing from this list to see their last known location. It’s not a perfect way to locate your missing earbuds, though, as you won’t get an exact location.

Using the iCloud website, you can locate an earbud’s last known location. You won’t get a precise location, but you will get a good idea of where your AirPods are. In fact, you can even get directions from their last known location.

A third way to find your AirPods is with the help of a tracking device, like an AirTag. An AirTag is an Apple device that can send out a signal to other nearby Apple devices. If you lose your AirPods while you’re traveling, you can purchase a tracker for about $10.

person holding airtag

Photo by Onur Binay on Unsplash

You can also trace your missing AirPods by following their sound. Unfortunately, this is not possible while they’re in their charging case. That said, it’s still a clever idea. After all, you’re able to play a chirping sound through the headphones. Of course, you’ll have to be close enough to hear it.

Another way to find your missing earbuds is to check their status on the Find My AirPods webpage. You’ll need to be connected to the Internet to check this one, but if you’re out in public, you can bet your AirPods will show up on the map.

Ultimately, your best bet is to follow the directions that are provided by your iCloud account. Just like with the iCloud website, you’ll have to sign in with your Apple ID and password. From here, you’ll be able to view a list of all the Apple devices you’ve linked to your iCloud account. Choose the AirPods you’re missing from the list and click the ‘Find’ icon. This should take a few seconds.

Lastly, you can use the ‘Find My’ app to locate your missing earbuds when you’re offline. However, this option will not work when your AirPods are in their charging case. Thankfully, it’s easier to find your lost earbuds when you have an iPhone with you, since you’ll be able to easily access the Find My website.