Overview
- Some first‑generation AirPods Max units are failing with three amber LED flashes that prevent pairing and resist a standard reset.
- Owners report that chilling the headphones for roughly 30–60 minutes has revived some sets, including a case documented by CNET’s Jeff Carlson.
- Users also describe successes after cleaning the earcup contacts, though results vary and may not last.
- A Reddit theory posits fatigue in thin wires from repeated 90‑degree earcup swivels with cold temporarily restoring contact, but this remains unconfirmed.
- Newer coverage from ZDNET reiterates the freezer workaround and suggests precautions such as sealing in a bag and limiting cold exposure to protect batteries.