In the previous iOS system, the device would display an alert to the user when a non-genuine iPhone or iPad part was detected. But Apple seems to be taking the next step, this time with AirPods.
With today’s release of iOS 16 RC to developers, external media outlet 9to5Mac has discovered that the system will now alert users to counterfeit AirPods.
According to the report, code found in internal system files shows that iOS 16 can detect counterfeit AirPods. some of these knockoffs look identical to the official AirPods, and they can even trigger some system features, such as auto-pairing and battery indicator lights.
With iOS 16, Apple iPhones and iPads will alert users when they try to pair fake AirPods. The message reads, “These headphones cannot be verified as genuine AirPods and may not function as expected.”
Users can click the “Learn More” button on the alert and go to the support article on Apple’s website, which contains more detailed information on how to identify official AirPods. Alternatively, users can click on the “Do Not Connect” option. Apple has left the door open, however, and has not outright banned these fake AirPods from connecting.
iOS 16 will be available as a free software update starting September 13 for iPhone 8 or later and iPhone SE (2nd generation) or later.
