Have you ever wondered if your reset AirPods can be tracked? As the popularity of Apple AirPods continues to grow, so do concerns surrounding their security and the possibility of tracking lost or stolen devices.
Tracking reset AirPods is an important topic to address, as the compact size of these wireless earbuds makes them susceptible to being misplaced or ending up in the wrong hands.
The ability to track AirPods largely depends on their connection to the owner’s registered Apple device, which is key for utilizing Apple’s Find My service—an essential tool for locating your lost or missing earbuds.
In this article, we will explore the various aspects and factors affecting the trackability of reset AirPods, and discuss under which circumstances they can be tracked or not.
Before diving into the main topic, it is crucial to understand the process of AirPods setup, connectivity, and the role played by Apple’s Find My service.
By gaining this foundational knowledge, readers will be better equipped to comprehend the intricacies of AirPods tracking when reset, ultimately enabling them to secure and locate their valuable devices.

Can Reset AirPods Be Tracked?
When it comes to tracking reset AirPods, there’s no absolute yes or no answer.
Reset AirPods cannot be tracked using the built-in Find My app on iPhones or iPads because the connection to the original device is removed.
Once the AirPods have been reset by another person, your ability to locate them via your iCloud account would be disabled.
However, it’s essential to clarify that tracking AirPods through the Find My app is possible if they have not been reset. Setting up Find My AirPods while you still have control over them is a proactive measure to ensure you can locate them in case they are lost or misplaced.
The app will display their last known location on a map, making it easier to retrieve them.
Unfortunately, AirPods do not have the iCloud Activation Lock feature that other Apple devices such as iPhones or iPods have.
This means that if your AirPods are stolen and reset, there is little recourse for tracking or claiming them back.
Despite the limitations in tracking reset AirPods, there are a few steps you can take to prevent loss or increase the chances of recovery:
- Enable Find My AirPods before you lose them or they become stolen.
- Keep your AirPods case securely stored when not in use.
- Be cautious of where you leave your AirPods, especially in public areas.
In summary, tracking reset AirPods is not possible with the Find My app. While AirPods can be tracked when not reset, this functionality becomes disabled once they have been reset by someone else.
Taking preventative measures and enabling Find My AirPods while still in your possession is crucial for potential recovery.

How AirPods Are Tracked
Tracking your AirPods is possible through a combination of features provided by Apple. The two main components enabling this functionality are the Find My app and the Bluetooth connectivity between your AirPods and iPhone or iPad.
Find My App
The Find My app, which is integrated with iCloud, is a pivotal tool in locating your AirPods. The app allows users to track the location of their connected Apple devices, including AirPods.
To make use of this feature, it is essential to set up the Find My app on your iPhone or iPad prior to misplacing your AirPods.
When your AirPods and your device are connected, you can access the location of your AirPods in the Find My app. The app will display a green dot on a map representing the location of your AirPods.
Keep in mind that this feature relies on the connectivity of your AirPods, meaning once they are reset, tracking them through the Find My app may not be possible.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Bluetooth plays a crucial role in AirPods tracking as well. The location information displayed in the Find My app is a result of the connection between your AirPods and your iOS device.
When this connection is active, your AirPods can send location data, allowing you to pinpoint their approximate location.
It is important to understand that if your AirPods are reset or out of Bluetooth range, your options for tracking them may be limited. Ensure that your devices are set up correctly and maintain their connectivity to make full use of the tracking features available.
Resetting AirPods
Steps to Reset Airpods
To reset your AirPods, follow these steps:
- Place the AirPods in the charging case.
- Wait for about 30 seconds before opening the case.
- Locate the button on the back of the case and press and hold it for approximately 15 seconds.
- Once the light inside the case starts flashing amber, release the button to complete the reset process.
Effects of Resetting
Resetting your AirPods has several implications:
- All settings and configurations will be cleared, and the AirPods will revert to their factory settings.
- The connection between your AirPods and any paired devices will be severed, making the AirPods untraceable through the Find My app.
- Once reset, the AirPods can be paired with a new device as if they were unused.
It is essential to understand that resetting your AirPods will make them untraceable, as they will no longer be connected to your iCloud account or any paired devices.
Consequently, lost or stolen reset AirPods cannot be tracked, rendering the Find My app useless for locating them.
Alternative Solutions
Although reset AirPods cannot be tracked using Apple’s native Find My app, there are alternative solutions to help locate lost or misplaced AirPods.
In this section, we will discuss third-party tracking devices and lost and found services as potential options.
Third-Party Tracking Devices
There are several third-party tracking devices available in the market that can help locate lost AirPods. These devices often come with a small, lightweight design and can be attached directly to your AirPods or their charging case.
They work with a companion app, providing real-time location updates to help you find your lost AirPods.
Some popular third-party tracking devices include:
While the setup process and tracking capabilities of these devices may vary, they typically require you to create an account, sync the tracker with your phone, and install the device on your AirPods or charging case.
Keep in mind that using a third-party tracking device does not guarantee the recovery of your lost AirPods, but it can be a helpful tool.
Lost and Found Services
In addition to third-party tracking devices, you can also utilize lost and found services to increase your chances of recovering missing AirPods.
Many organizations, such as schools, workplaces, and public transportation systems, have designated lost and found departments where you can inquire about your lost items.
If you suspect that your AirPods were misplaced in a public area or a location with high foot traffic, you can also consider using online lost and found services, such as:
These platforms allow users to post and search for lost items, including AirPods, in a specific area.
You can create a detailed listing of your lost AirPods, including their description and the location where you last saw them. This might increase your chances of someone finding and returning your lost AirPods.
While both third-party tracking devices and lost and found services offer alternative solutions to track reset AirPods, it is important to take preventive measures, such as securing your AirPods in a protective case and being mindful of their location, to minimize the risk of losing them in the first place.
Can you use one Airpod to Track And Locate the other?
Yes, you can use one AirPod to locate the other.
If you have misplaced one of your AirPods, you can use the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to play a sound on the missing AirPod to help you locate it. Simply select the AirPod that you’ve lost in the Find My app, and then tap the “Play Sound” button.
The missing AirPod will emit a sound that will gradually increase in volume, making it easier for you to locate it. You can also use this feature to locate both AirPods if you have misplaced them.
Preventive Measures
When it comes to keeping your AirPods safe and secure, there are several preventive measures one can take to minimize the risk of theft or loss.
By implementing these strategies, users can be more confident and assured about the safety of their AirPods.
Protective Accessories
Investing in protective accessories for your AirPods can greatly reduce the chance of damage or loss. Some examples of useful accessories include:
- Carrying cases: Purchase a durable, hard-shell case for your AirPods to protect them from drops and bumps. Make sure the case has a secure closure and consider adding a carabiner or lanyard to keep the case attached to your belongings.
- Ear hooks: Adding ear hooks can help keep your AirPods in place, reducing the chance of them falling out of your ears while on the move.
- Skins or decals: Personalize your AirPods with skins or decals that not only make them more visually appealing but also help you identify them more easily in case they get misplaced.

Proper Storage
When not in use, it is essential to store your AirPods in a safe, designated spot. Keep the following in mind:
- Always place the AirPods inside their charging case when not in use. This protects them from damage and increases their battery life.
- Store the charging case in a secure location, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive moisture. Avoid keeping AirPods in easily accessible areas where they could be easily grabbed or forgotten.
Regular Maintenance
Performing regular maintenance on your AirPods helps ensure their longevity and functionality. Consider these tips for maintaining your AirPods:
- Clean your AirPods regularly with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid using alcohol or cleaning solutions that can cause damage to the sensitive components.
- Inspect your AirPods for physical damage, such as cracks or dents. If any damage is found, contact Apple support for assistance.
- Keep your AirPods and their charging case updated with the latest software to ensure optimal performance and security features.
FAQ
Q: Can reset AirPods be tracked?
A: Reset AirPods cannot be tracked because they will no longer be paired to your devices. You can only track AirPods when they are connected to your iPhone or iPad via iCloud and the Find My app.
Q: How can I track my AirPods?
A: To track your AirPods, open the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Go to the Devices tab and choose your AirPods. If your AirPods are online, you’ll see a green dot on the map indicating their location.
Q: What should I do if I lose my AirPods?
A: If you lose your AirPods, use the Find My app to locate them. If they are offline, you can still mark them as lost and activate certain features, such as displaying your contact information, in case someone finds them.
Q: How do I set up Find My AirPods?
A: Set up Find My AirPods by pairing your AirPods with your iPhone or iPad. Once paired, your AirPods will be added to the Find My app under the Devices tab, allowing you to track their location if lost.
Q: Can my AirPods be tracked if they are stolen and reset?
A: If your AirPods are stolen and reset, you will not be able to track them. Resetting the AirPods removes their connection to your devices and the Find My app.
Conclusion- How To Track Airpods
In summary, the answer is that reset AirPods cannot be tracked due to the loss of connection with the owner’s iCloud account and device. The Find My app feature, which is useful for tracking non-reset AirPods, will no longer be effective once the AirPods have been reset.
It is essential for AirPods owners to take preventative measures, such as keeping them secure and setting up Find My AirPods beforehand. This way, tracking can be possible if they are ever misplaced or stolen without being reset.
Although tracking reset AirPods is not an option, maintaining proper care and precautions will go a long way in safeguarding your earphones or having to track stolen Airpods and Airpds Pro.
Remember to always store your AirPods or Airpods Pro in their designated case and to enable necessary tracking settings to maximize the person chances of retrieving them if the need arises.