AirPods Pro 2: A Troubling Union with FindMy Software
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Chapter 1: Understanding FindMy's Purpose
The primary function of Apple's FindMy feature is to help users locate their belongings. It seems that a significant number of people, particularly Apple customers, experience a kind of forgetfulness that necessitates tracking their devices constantly. While I can appreciate Apple's intention to assist users in keeping tabs on their items, I draw the line at their assumption that they know better than their customers. With AirPods Pro 2, disabling this feature is not an option—something that leaves me utterly baffled.
This may come off as a rant, but I assure you, it is not. I commend Apple when they excel, but when they falter, my criticism is fierce. If I had the chance to speak directly to Tim Cook, I would firmly advise him to reconsider this feature and express my dissatisfaction with a definitive conclusion. As a software engineer, I can differentiate between outstanding hardware and subpar software. Although I previously praised the AirPods Pro 2, I now find that Apple's FindMy integration detracts from an otherwise exceptional product. Let me explain.
Section 1.1: Daily Usage and Unexpected Battery Drain
Typically, my AirPods Pro 2 rest in their case on my nightstand for five out of seven days. Their placement is consistent, much like my first-generation AirPods Pro. However, over recent months, I began receiving notifications from my iPhone indicating that the case battery was dwindling to around 20%. I initially thought nothing of it, simply charging them and going about my day contentedly. But then, after a recent full charge, I discovered that my AirPods Pro 2 case had dropped to 76% after just 36 hours. My immediate reaction was one of disbelief.
I turned to the internet for answers, searching for "AirPods Pro 2 case battery drains too quickly." My quest led me to MacRumors, where numerous users echoed my frustrations. I came across additional articles that deepened my understanding of the issue.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Update that Sparked Outrage
My investigation pointed to the 5B58 firmware update from Apple. The release notes were underwhelming, simply stating "Bug fixes and other improvements." As a customer, I found this vague description unacceptable from a company of Apple's stature. If I were to communicate in such ambiguous terms to my project stakeholders, I would be met with disapproval.
Section 1.2: The Persistent FindMy Issue
In typical Apple fashion, when they encounter one problem, they don’t stop there. The issue with my AirPods Pro 2—and many others—stems from their inability to properly disable FindMy. Even when you attempt to turn it off in Bluetooth settings, it merely reduces its visibility in the FindMy network. Attempting to remove the AirPods from FindMy results in their immediate reappearance. Apple's suggested solution? Completely forget the device in Bluetooth settings, which is hardly a practical fix. Users deserve a straightforward option to disable FindMy entirely for devices they can reliably locate.
Chapter 2: The Software Quality Concern
iOS 16.2 introduced further complications by providing inaccurate battery readings for AirPods. Numerous discussions on platforms like Reddit confirm this issue. While I’ve pushed for stronger language in writing, even I admit that my frustration has reached new heights.
If you're curious whether disabling FindMy in Bluetooth settings has any effect, initial findings indicate a modest improvement—about a 40-60% reduction in battery drain. However, I recall my AirPods losing just 1-2% daily before these issues arose. Now, that loss has escalated to around 10%, which is unacceptable as it wastes energy on a feature I don't require.
The bottom line?
Ultimately, the problem isn't solely about AirPods or the FindMy feature; it's part of a broader trend among tech giants—diminished quality control in software development. Crafting visually appealing software is not synonymous with delivering effective software. Conversations with fellow engineers reveal a troubling lack of rigorous testing in tech companies, which is frustrating from a consumer standpoint.
Experiencing untested software, especially when it doesn’t meet expectations, feels cheap and disrespectful to customers who invest in premium products anticipating an exceptional experience. In its current state, FindMy falls short of that expectation, as do iOS 16.2 and the 5B58 firmware update. Such shortcomings should be reserved for low-cost products, not those from Apple.
Apple, it's time to step up your game. Your hardware's excellence is only as strong as the software that supports it. Don’t become complacent!
Attila Vago — A software engineer striving to enhance the world one line of code at a time. A lifelong nerd, advocate for web accessibility, LEGO enthusiast, vinyl record collector, and craft beer lover. Explore my story here! Subscribe and join for more insights on LEGO, technology, coding, and accessibility!