If you’re having issues with your AirPods Max and need a replacement pair under warranty, it looks like the new set comes without a refreshed set of ear pads.
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A 9to5Mac reader sent a pair of AirPods Max for repair due to a problem with the Digital Crown, and the replacement set he got back did not include ear pads.
Apple instead expects users to keep the ear pads from the damaged set of AirPods Max for use with the replacement pair, unless of course the ear pads themselves are also damaged. Given the modular design of the AirPods Max, it is possible for Apple to ship only the headphones or just the ear pads for replacement.
Apple’s mailing instructions in the “AirPods Max” include a diagram instructing users to remove the ear pads before shipping the “AirPods Max” in a repair box.
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Image via 9to5Mac
With replacement AirPods Pro models, Apple does provide new earbuds, but earbuds for the AirPods Pro cost $ 8 instead of $ 69 like the AirPods Max ear pads, so it’s no surprise these come separately.
At this point, Apple doesn’t sell ear pads on a standalone basis, but they will likely be available when stocks improve. AirPods Max Apple purchases from Apple currently still have March delivery dates.