Shenzhen, China, a city transformed from a fishing village to a global tech powerhouse, is a crucial player in the electronics we use daily. A recent trip to Huaqiangbei, the world’s largest electronics market, yielded a surprising discovery: genuine AirPods Pro 2 for a mere $9. This article explores this incredible find, examining their functionality and authenticity.
AirPods Pro 2
Huaqiangbei: A Tech Treasure Trove
Huaqiangbei offers a dizzying array of electronic components and finished products, including remarkably accurate replicas of popular devices. While counterfeit products are a concern, genuine bargains can also be found. Amongst the Apple Watches, cables, and AirPods, a pair of AirPods Pro 2 caught my attention.
AirPods Pro 2 in Huaqiangbei
The $9 AirPods Pro 2: Too Good to Be True?
Initially suspected as counterfeits, these AirPods Pro 2 proved to be genuine. The case, marked with “Designed by Apple in California” and “Made in China,” featured USB-C charging and fit perfectly. While lacking a magnetic charging case, they were undeniably real Apple AirPods Pro, purchased for a fraction of their retail price – just 70 RMB, or approximately $9.59. This is less than 5% of the typical $179-$249 price tag.
AirPods Pro 2 Case
Performance Test: Functionality and Features
The primary concern was functionality. Even basic audio playback at $9 would have been a steal. Surprisingly, these AirPods Pro 2 performed remarkably well. While they didn’t automatically appear on my iPhone like new AirPods, they connected easily and displayed the familiar connection window. Spatial audio, head tracking, and noise cancellation worked flawlessly, comparable to a brand new pair.
AirPods Pro 2 Connected to iPhone
Compatibility and Quirks
Syncing with a Mac revealed some minor issues. The AirPods appeared as “AirPods Pro #8” in the Bluetooth menu but wouldn’t connect automatically unless disconnected from the iPhone. Occasional disconnections of the left earbud and slightly less effective spatial tracking were also observed.
AirPods Pro 2 Features
Authenticity and AppleCare Coverage
Checking Apple’s coverage revealed AppleCare+ coverage until July 2026, with a purchase date of July 2024. This confirmed the AirPods’ authenticity and suggested they were likely refurbished and repaired units. The presence of AppleCare+ also covers accidental damage, further solidifying the value of this $9 purchase.
AirPods Pro 2 Serial Number
A Remarkable Bargain
This $9 purchase represents an exceptional deal. With a lost pair on a flight and a missing right earbud, replacing them for a fraction of the cost is an unexpected win. The prevalence of similar AirPods in Huaqiangbei raises questions about their origin, but the quality and functionality of this particular pair are undeniable.
AirPods Pro 2 Stall
