Microsoft Surface Earbuds Face Charging Issues After Extended Inactivity

Recent reports indicate that Microsoft’s Surface Earbuds, launched in 2019 as a competitor to Apple AirPods, are encountering significant charging problems when left unused for extended periods. This issue has emerged primarily among users who have not employed their earbuds for several months, leading to a growing concern about the durability and reliability of the product.

According to Windows Central, users have reported that their Surface Earbuds fail to recharge after being dormant for over six months. In a testing scenario, three pairs of the earbuds were examined: two had been inactive for over a year, while a third was purchased second-hand from eBay. Disturbingly, all three pairs were unable to recharge, raising alarms about the longevity of the earbuds’ batteries (Windows Central, July 2025).

The reports highlight a recurring theme among users on various forums and social media platforms, including Reddit, where many have shared similar experiences. Some users noted that when attempting to charge their earbuds, the charging case emitted a red light, while others reported no light at all, suggesting a potential battery failure (Reddit, July 2025).

Despite these significant complaints, Microsoft has not made any official statements addressing the issue. The last updates for the Surface Earbuds came in the form of two firmware upgrades before the company ceased production in 2022. This lack of support has led to speculation that the company may not prioritize resolving these issues, especially considering the earbuds’ lukewarm reception upon release (PCMag, July 2025).

The earbuds were originally priced at $200, a figure that many reviewers deemed steep given their performance. For instance, a review published by PCMag awarded the Surface Earbuds a rating of three out of five, citing inconsistent audio quality as a notable drawback (PCMag, July 2025).

Dr. Emily Carter, a Professor of Audio Engineering at Stanford University, commented on the implications of battery longevity in consumer electronics, stating, “Batteries, particularly lithium-ion types used in earbuds, have a finite lifespan. When left uncharged for extended periods, they can enter a deep discharge state, which may render them inoperable” (Carter, 2023).

Furthermore, the absence of robust customer service or product support from Microsoft has raised questions about the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction. According to Mr. James O’Connor, a technology analyst at Forrester Research, “Microsoft’s decision to discontinue the Surface Earbuds without providing adequate support could tarnish its reputation in the consumer electronics market” (O’Connor, 2023).

In light of these developments, users are advised to periodically recharge their Surface Earbuds, even if they are not in regular use, to mitigate the risk of battery failure. The lack of official guidance from Microsoft underscores the need for consumers to be proactive in maintaining their devices.

As the market for wireless earbuds continues to grow, it remains to be seen whether Microsoft will address these issues or if the lack of support will ultimately push consumers toward alternative brands known for better customer service and product reliability. The Surface Earbuds’ fate may reflect broader trends in consumer technology, particularly regarding product longevity and corporate accountability in the face of user dissatisfaction.