Apple’s AirPods A2031 stands among the company’s most remarkable achievements. The tech giant sold about 120 million pairs of AirPods in 2021. These wireless earbuds became Apple’s top-selling accessory just two years after their 2016 debut. The sales numbers jumped from 35 million units in 2018 to 60 million in 2019.
The AirPods A2031 model identifies the left earbud of second-generation AirPods that Apple released in March 2019 with a wireless charging case. This version brought notable upgrades including Apple’s H1 chip that enables faster device pairing, extended talk time, and hands-free “Hey Siri” support. Apple now offers six different AirPods models, including three pro versions. Identifying your AirPods’ generation is a vital step to get repairs, replacements, and ensure compatibility. This piece helps you determine if you own the A2031 AirPods model and explains its differences from other generations like AirPods Gen 3 or AirPods A2084. You’ll also learn what steps to take if you need a replacement.
How to Identify AirPods A2031 Model
You can easily spot if you have the AirPods A2031 model once you know what to look for. Apple lets you check your specific AirPods model in several ways. These quick checks come in handy when you need replacements, want to check compatibility, or just want to know which generation of AirPods you own.
Check Bluetooth settings on your iPhone
The quickest way to spot AirPods model A2031 needs just your iPhone and paired AirPods:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad
- Go to the Bluetooth section
- Find your AirPods in the device list
- Tap the blue information icon (i) next to your AirPods name
- Look for the Model Number as you scroll down
This works for all AirPods generations, including the A2031 AirPods. On top of that, it shows you useful details like the serial number and firmware version. If you’re using older iOS versions (14 or earlier), you’ll need to head to Settings > General > About, then tap your AirPods name to see the details.
The Bluetooth settings method helps you figure out if you have AirPods gen 3, AirPods A2084 (AirPods Pro), or other versions. Each generation shows its own model number right there, so you can tell them apart easily.
Look for the model number on the AirPod itself
Your AirPods themselves can tell you if you have the A2031 generation:
- Pick up the left AirPod
- Check the underside (the part that points down when in your ear)
- Look at the tiny printed text near the stem’s base
- See if it says “A2031”
The model number shows up in small gray text starting with “A” and four numbers after it. Second-generation AirPods have A2031 on the left earbud and A2032 on the right one. This hands-on check helps when your AirPods aren’t hooked up to an iOS device or if you’re buying used ones and want to know what you’re getting.
This method lets you spot the difference between similar models like A2564 AirPods (third-generation) or Apple AirPods A2031 (second-generation).
Find the model number inside the charging case lid
Here’s another reliable way to check using your charging case:
- Open your AirPods case lid all the way
- Look under the lid (the part facing you)
- Find the small printed text by the hinge
- Check both the model and serial numbers
A2031 AirPods with wireless charging usually show model number A1938 on the case, while the regular charging case shows A1602. Both cases work with second-generation AirPods that have the A2031 left earbud.
The case check gives you extra proof beyond just looking at the earbuds. The serial number inside matches what you see in your Bluetooth settings when your AirPods are connected.
You can tell first and second-generation AirPods apart by their charging light location. First-gen cases have the light inside, while second-gen wireless charging cases show it on the front.
These three methods help you know for sure if you have the AirPods A2031 model – the left earbud of Apple’s second-generation AirPods that came out in 2019.
What Generation is AirPods A2031?
Knowing your Apple AirPods generation helps you find replacements and check compatibility. The model number A2031 stands out as a unique identifier in the AirPods family, with its own special features and capabilities.
A2031 is the left earbud of AirPods 2nd generation
A closer look at your wireless earbuds shows that the airpods a2031 model is actually the left earbud of Apple’s second-generation AirPods. This matters a lot if you need replacements because each earbud has its own model number. The second-generation pair comes with an A2031 left earbud and an A2032 right earbud.
These model numbers work as clear identifiers in Apple’s product line. First-generation AirPods used model numbers A1523 or A1722, while the a2031 airpods generation points specifically to second-generation status. This knowledge helps you communicate better with Apple support or service providers.
Your airpods a2031 generation package comes with matching charging cases—you’ll get either the standard charging case (A1602) or the wireless charging case (A1938). Since Apple launched newer versions like airpods gen 3 (A2564) and airpods a2084 (AirPods Pro), you need to know your exact model to get the right accessories or replacements.
Released in 2019 with H1 chip
Apple revealed the second-generation AirPods on March 20, 2019, taking wireless audio technology to new heights. The a2031 airpods looked similar to earlier models on the outside but packed major improvements inside.
The switch from W1 chip to the new H1 processor marked the biggest change. This upgrade brought real benefits. The H1 chip made connections faster, reduced audio delays, and upgraded from Bluetooth 4.2 to the better Bluetooth 5.0 standard.
The H1 chip tells you right away if you have second-generation AirPods. This processor changed the game for Apple’s wireless audio technology and led to future advances in the a2564 airpods generation (third-generation) and later models.
Battery specs stayed the same as the first generation, but the apple airpods a2031 worked better thanks to smarter power use. The H1 chip made calls and music playback more efficient, giving users practical benefits.
Supports hands-free ‘Hey Siri’
The airpods a2031 wireless charging models brought a game-changing feature – hands-free Siri activation. Earlier AirPods needed you to tap twice for Siri, but the second generation let you use just your voice.
This “Hey Siri” feature changed how people used their devices. Users could play music, call friends, navigate, or control their smart home by speaking naturally [10, 11]. Business users and multitaskers found this hands-free option boosted their productivity.
The airpods model a2031 uses special sensors that make voice detection work well. These include dual beamforming microphones, dual optical sensors, a motion-detecting accelerometer, and a speech-detecting accelerometer. All these parts work with the H1 chip to catch your voice clearly, even in noisy places.
The second-generation AirPods kept things simple compared to the later airpods a2084 (AirPods Pro) with its noise cancelation and transparency modes. This made the airpods a2031 generation a great starting point for people new to wireless earbuds.
How A2031 Compares to Other AirPods Models
Tech enthusiasts and investors who track Apple’s products can see major advances when they compare the airpods a2031 with other generations. Each new generation shows Apple’s state-of-the-art approach to wireless audio. Let’s look at what makes each model unique.
AirPods A2031 vs A1523 (1st Gen)
The airpods a2031 model (2nd generation) came out in 2019, while the A1523 (1st generation) launched in 2016. The a2031 airpods use the new H1 chip instead of the W1 processor found in first-generation models.
This new chip brings several benefits:
- Connects to devices faster
- Talk time increased by 50%
- You can say “Hey Siri” hands-free (not possible in 1st gen)
- Uses Bluetooth 5.0 instead of Bluetooth 4.2
Both generations look almost similar from the outside. You’ll need to check the model numbers to tell them apart.
AirPods A2031 vs A2564 (3rd Gen)
The airpods a2031 and the third-generation A2564 from 2021 show a bigger leap forward. The third generation looks more like AirPods Pro and comes with major changes.
Here’s what’s different:
- A2564 has shorter stems that look like Pro models
- Better protection against water and sweat (IPX4 rating)
- Spatial audio that tracks head movement
- Battery lasts 6 hours instead of 5 hours in a2031 airpods
These visible changes make it easier to spot third-generation AirPods compared to telling first and second generations apart.
AirPods A2031 vs A2084 (AirPods Pro)
The apple airpods a2031 and airpods a2084 (Pro) both launched in 2019, but they serve different users. Pro models pack premium features you won’t find in the standard version.
The A2084 Pro comes with:
- Blocks out noise actively
- Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings
- Silicone tips for a custom fit (A2031 has fixed size)
- Protection against water and sweat
- Force sensors replace tap controls
These upgrades explain the Pro model’s higher price tag. Both models use the same H1 chip technology at their core. Business users can see how Apple targets different customer needs with these models.
Replacing or Repairing Your A2031 AirPod
Your airpods a2031 might need replacement or repair even with careful use. You can save time and money by learning the right steps to fix issues with this specific model.
When to contact Apple Support
Apple Support should be your first stop if your airpods a2031 model has technical issues. You should reach out right away if your AirPods won’t connect to devices after resetting them, the battery holds less than 80% of its charge, or the sound quality drops by a lot.
Lost an individual AirPod? Apple offers single earbud replacements that are budget-friendly compared to buying a new set. You can get repairs through the Genius Bar, an Apple Authorized Service Provider, or mail your device in a prepaid shipping box.
How to pair a replacement left AirPod
Your replacement a2031 airpods left earbud needs these specific steps to pair:
- Place both AirPods (your original right and new left) in the charging case
- Connect the case to power and close the lid for at least 20 minutes
- Open the lid and check if the status light flashes white
- The light might flash amber – if so, press and hold the setup button on the case back for 15 seconds until it flashes white
- Hold the case near your unlocked iPhone with the lid open
- Follow the on-screen pairing instructions to complete the process
Your AirPods should be fully charged if pairing doesn’t work. Apple Support can help if you still have issues.
Warranty and AppleCare+ options
All airpods generations come with one year of hardware coverage and 90 days of technical support. AppleCare+ offers extra protection if you need more coverage.
The airpods a2031 generation’s AppleCare+ package has unlimited accidental damage protection ($29 service fee per incident), battery service for capacity below 80%, and round-the-clock priority access to Apple experts. This protection covers your AirPods and charging case.
Business professionals and investors should think about AppleCare+ as a smart financial choice. The cost of replacing individual parts often exceeds comprehensive coverage.
Third-party replacement risks
Third-party replacements for apple airpods a2031 might look cheaper at first but come with serious risks. Apple doesn’t have an official licensing program for AirPods parts, unlike their “Made For iPhone” program for other accessories.
Unofficial cases often have poor voltage control that could harm your AirPods. These components don’t deal very well with genuine Apple products and might block important firmware updates.
The biggest issue? Non-Apple replacements rarely work well with genuine AirPods. You might face pairing problems or limited features. Official Apple replacements cost more upfront but remain the most reliable choice.
Is A2031 Compatible with All AirPods 2nd Gen?
Business professionals who depend on their airpods a2031 need to know about compatibility factors before buying replacements or upgrades. Apple’s ecosystem has specific model numbers that determine which parts work together. This knowledge can save you from making expensive mistakes.
Compatibility with A2032 (right earbud)
The airpods model a2031 is the left earbud of Apple’s second-generation AirPods, and A2032 is its right partner. These parts work as a matched set. Both pieces use similar internal technology and firmware specs.
Model numbers must match up when you buy replacement parts. Any genuine A2032 right earbud from the second generation will pair with a left a2031 airpods. This works because both parts share the same H1 chip design and firmware system.
Notwithstanding that, replacement earbuds might give you pairing problems sometimes. Two A2031 earbuds (both left) won’t work as a stereo pair, even if they connect to your device on their own. The firmware gives each earbud a specific role in how they communicate.
Charging case model A1602 and A1938
The airpods a2031 generation naturally works with two different charging cases:
- A1602 – The standard Lightning charging case (introduced in 2016)
- A1938 – The Wireless Charging Case (introduced in 2019)
These cases support the airpods a2031 wireless charging features and work with first-generation AirPods too. The A1938 wireless case lets you use Qi charging and has an LED indicator on the front. The A1602’s status light sits inside the case.
Mixing with other generations: what to avoid
Your apple airpods a2031 parts won’t work well with pieces from other generations. First-generation AirPods use W1 chips, while second-generation models use H1 technology. This creates a basic mismatch between generations.
The a2564 airpods generation (3rd gen) and airpods a2084 (AirPods Pro) have different internal designs that stop them from pairing across generations. Before buying replacement parts, check your model numbers to answer “which airpods do I have” or “what airpods do I have.”
Your professional workflow needs all parts from the same generation – left earbud, right earbud, and charging case. This gives you the best performance and helps avoid connection problems.
Summing it all up
Knowing your AirPods A2031 model will save time, money, and hassle for Apple ecosystem users. This piece showed how this model serves as the left earbud of Apple’s second-generation AirPods from 2019. These wireless earbuds brought major tech upgrades with the H1 chip, hands-free “Hey Siri” feature, and faster connection speeds.
Business users need to spot the difference between AirPods generations before buying replacements. The A2031 AirPods only work with the A2032 right earbud and either the A1602 standard or A1938 wireless charging case. Mixing parts from different generations will cause performance issues that hurt productivity.
Apple’s product strategy becomes clear when you look at the A2031 model next to other generations. The first gen models didn’t have the processing power or voice features. Third-gen and Pro models (AirPods A2084) added big design changes and premium features at higher prices. This layered approach lets users pick products that match their needs and budget.
Good warranty coverage will protect your investment. AppleCare+ gives great benefits to business users who depend on their devices daily, especially given the cost of replacing individual parts. While cheaper third-party options exist, their compatibility risks far outweigh any savings.
Model identification helps you get the right parts for repairs or replacements. You can check your model through Bluetooth settings, look at the earbuds, or check the charging case. These methods reliably answer “which AirPods do I have?” before you buy anything new.
AirPods’ soaring win shows Apple’s strong position in wireless audio. For investors watching Apple’s ecosystem, the development from first-gen to current models reflects their steadfast dedication to innovation and market strategies that keep driving revenue growth.
Here are some FAQs about the AirPods a2031:
What AirPod model is A2031?
The A2031 model number refers to either the left or right AirPod from Apple’s 2nd generation standard AirPods (airpods a2031). These wireless earbuds were released in 2019 as an upgrade to the original AirPods. The A2031 AirPods feature the H1 chip for faster connectivity and support hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality (a2031 airpods generation).
How do I control my AirPods 2nd generation?
You can control your 2nd generation AirPods (which may include the A2031 model) by double-tapping either earbud to play/pause or skip tracks (airpods model a2031). The controls can be customized in your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings. These AirPods also support voice commands through “Hey Siri” for hands-free control of music, volume, and calls (a2031 airpods).
How to tell if AirPods are fake?
To spot fake AirPods, check the model number (real A2031 AirPods will show proper serial numbers in Settings), examine the build quality, and test features like spatial audio (airpods a2031 model). Genuine AirPods will appear in your iPhone’s Find My network and have perfect H1 chip integration, while fakes often have connectivity issues or missing features (a2031 airpods generation).
What are the secret buttons on AirPods?
The “secret” controls on 2nd gen AirPods (including A2031) are the force sensors on the stems – double-tap for play/pause/skip, and say “Hey Siri” for voice commands (airpods model a2031). Unlike later models, these don’t have press-and-hold or swipe controls. All functions can be customized in your Bluetooth settings for each individual AirPod (a2031 airpods).
Will A2031 and A2032 AirPods work together?
Yes, A2031 (left) and A2032 (right) AirPods are designed to work together as a pair (airpods a2031). These model numbers simply identify which earbud is which in the 2nd generation set. If you mix them with other generations, they may not pair correctly, but matching A2031/A2032 will function normally (a2031 airpods generation).
Can AirPods A2031 charge wirelessly?
The A2031 AirPods themselves don’t charge wirelessly – only their case does if you have the wireless charging version (airpods model a2031). The earbuds charge via the Lightning connector in the case. You’ll need the special wireless charging case (sold separately) to enable Qi charging for the case (a2031 airpods).
Where do I tap on my AirPods 2nd generation?
On 2nd gen AirPods (including A2031), tap the top of either AirPod’s stem to activate controls (airpods a2031 model). The touch area is about halfway up the stem – not on the earbud itself. You’ll feel a slight click and hear a confirmation sound when successfully tapped (a2031 airpods generation).
How to control volume on AirPods 2nd generation?
For A2031 2nd gen AirPods, you can’t directly adjust volume by tapping – you must use Siri (“Hey Siri, volume up”) or your connected device (airpods model a2031). Later AirPods models added swipe controls, but the A2031 relies on voice commands or manual device adjustment (a2031 airpods).
How to see AirPod battery?
To check your A2031 AirPods’ battery, open the case near your iPhone to see a popup, or add the Batteries widget to your Today View (airpods a2031 model). You can also ask Siri “How’s my AirPod battery?” The charge status shows for both the case and individual earbuds when viewed this way (a2031 airpods generation).