I just got a pair of AirPods Pro replacements yesterday and see the same exact thing. I wonder if it changes at all once the originals are returned back to Apple?
Also, the serial number is really only for the charge case, correct? Each earbud has a completely unique serial number printed on it (which I can barely read without zoom from my iPhone camera).
You're correct. The charge case serial number is how warranty is tracked. The tiny individual serial numbers on each pod is required for service. Swapped pod SN x for SN x.
I assume its to try and slow the counterfeit pods from slipping through. There's no serial verification for the pods previously.
The bug itself doesn't make much sense. I can confirm its related to service.. (In most cases it'll just be the pods being replaced; the charge case has nothing to do with anything except charging.) Replacing one or both pods has no effect on the accessory serial number.
In the odd time where the charging case is replaced, you'll have existing warranty transferred to a new accessory serial. The same process as if your iPhone was replaced.
Replacing a pod is comparable to a display replacement. Where each display has a unique serial that's registered with apple. It doesn't change your iPhone's serial number.
All that to basically say what a weird bug.
