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Mimiron

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Dec 12, 2017
391
400
I just bought a Qi-certified wireless charger for my AirPods. So, I've put them there to charge overnight and wake up to see this weird stain with abrasions on the backside of the case that previously wasn't there, likely caused by overheating.

IMG_0712.jpg

I mean, it's not the end of the world, but it sure is visible. Has anyone experienced anything similar after charging their AirPods wirelessly? With a case, this wouldn't be an issue, but mine hasn't arrived yet, so I've been babysitting them like crazy only to see these stains. Guess who won't be charging their AirPods wirelessly anytime soon :D?
 
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7thson

macrumors 65816
May 13, 2012
1,399
1,551
Six Rivers, CA
I don’t see a pattern so much as micro abrasions. The glossy surface of the APP case is prone to this but over night on a Qi pad seems excessive. It’s normal for the device receiving the charge to travel around a bit on the charger, especially when both surfaces are smooth. There are time lapse videos that show this. Is your Qi pad fabric covered? If so that would could account for the micro abrasions.
 
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Mimiron

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Dec 12, 2017
391
400
I don’t see a pattern so much as micro abrasions. The glossy surface of the APP case is prone to this but over night on a Qi pad seems excessive. It’s normal for the device receiving the charge to travel around a bit on the charger, especially when both surfaces are smooth. There are time lapse videos that show this. Is your Qi pad fabric covered? If so that would account for the micro abrasions.

I don't think the pad is fabric-covered. I had to reposition the case because it stopped charging once, though.
 

Mimiron

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Dec 12, 2017
391
400
OK, yeah I see that now. Weird. I wonder if it’s a surface discoloration/stain or if its cause is from an internal part overheating/reacting to the wireless charger.

I have a feeling it's the latter.
 

blackbird666

macrumors newbie
Nov 22, 2019
15
4
Kuwait
I used my APP with Samsung wireless charger only once and noticed a slight discolouration on its first use and now I just plugin the lightning cable when I need to charge my APP.
 
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Ralfi

macrumors 601
Dec 22, 2016
4,373
3,101
Australia
I just bought a Qi-certified wireless charger for my AirPods. So, I've put them there to charge overnight and wake up to see this weird stain with abrasions on the backside of the case that previously wasn't there, likely caused by overheating.

View attachment 886695

I mean, it's not the end of the world, but it sure is visible. Has anyone experienced anything similar after charging their AirPods wirelessly? With a case, this wouldn't be an issue, but mine hasn't arrived yet, so I've been babysitting them like crazy only to see these stains. Guess who won't be charging their AirPods wirelessly anytime soon :D?


That’s so weird. It’s like a layer of the case’s ‘skin’ has been shed.

Did the case feel warm when you took it off the charger?

What exact model of charger is it?

Is it a high wattage charger? I’m not sure what wattage Apple recommends for this case, or whether the case is smart enough to regulate the power it receives?
 
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blackbird666

macrumors newbie
Nov 22, 2019
15
4
Kuwait
Yes, the case felt warm but not at a level that I would consider a safety issue.

It is a Samsung 9 watt fast charger ! I only used it once and after the discolouration I stopped using it and now the back side of the APP charge case has has slight bluish tint to it but its localised to the centre of the case in a rectangle shape.


I think no matter how much the wireless charger can output, the case will only take in what it is rated for. Im sure it will be regulated in some ways.
 

Ralfi

macrumors 601
Dec 22, 2016
4,373
3,101
Australia
It is a Samsung 9 watt fast charger ! I only used it once and after the discolouration I stopped using it and now the back side of the APP charge case has has slight bluish tint to it but its localised to the centre of the case in a rectangle shape

Hmm that’s pretty concerning. How long was it on the charger for??
 

SebasNJ80

macrumors newbie
Apr 24, 2020
1
0
I got mine in February. I just talked to a senior Advisor at Apple because these black spots and marks came out of nowhere. He told me to set a repair order and they will swap it. I have no idea how this happened.
 

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bwinter88

macrumors regular
Jul 20, 2012
152
1,913
Most likely Apple will swap the case for you no problem. But as another option, try using a bit of toothpaste with your thumb or cloth and rub until the discoloration is gone. NOVUS plastic polish is also excellent at restoring plastic stuff like this. I would buy a silicone case cover going forward if you plan on continuing to use the charger.
 
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