To turn off AirPods tracking, you need to remove them from your Apple ID via the Find My app, which stops location sharing, and for a full reset (especially for used AirPods), perform a factory reset by holding the back button on the case until the light flashes orange/red, then re-pair them, ensuring you also disable "Notify When Left Behind" in settings.
How to remove AirPods, an AirTag, or another Find My network accessory or device from an Apple Account on an iPhone or iPad. Open the Find My app, then tap Devices or Items. Tap the device or item that you want to remove, then swipe up on the handle.
What you can do is on their iPhone in Settings go to Bluetooth and on there find the Airpods and click the ``i'' icon next to the name and click forget device, this option will forget the device and stop it from paring or stop the airpods from connecting to the iPhone. If you have any further questions just ask.
If your AirPods are "Offline" or show "No location found"
You might be able to get directions to their last known location — but you won't be able to play a sound or use Find Nearby. If they come back online, you get a notification on your iPhone (or other Apple device that you use them with).
To answer you question, yes. Even if they are in lost mode, they can be used. The good news is, once they connect, you can see them if you mark them as lost.
Apple doesn't offer device recovery support for AirPods. Unlike an iPhone or Mac, they're not tied to your Apple ID with a lock. If someone resets and keeps them, Apple won't be able to block or locate them for you, even if you provide the serial number.
Can you deactivate stolen AirPods? Yes, the rightful owner can deactivate stolen AirPods.
How far can AirPods be tracked? Because AirPods do not have Wi-Fi or GPS connectivity built-in, it's not possible to track them over long distances. Using Bluetooth when connected to another Apple device, you should be able to see their location from around 40 feet (10 meters).
If AirPods that are separated from their owner are seen moving with you over time, one of these alerts is displayed: AirPods Detected, AirPods Pro Detected, or AirPods Max Detected.
Unpair AirPods
You need to remove AirPods from your Apple Account before giving away or selling them. That way, the new owner can pair them to their Apple Account and take advantage of all the features — including Find My. You can remove AirPods from your Apple Account on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Take the cover off and remove the battery. With the battery removed, the device can't send its location to its owner.
The best thing you can do is take them to a nearby lost & found, front desk of a nearby building, or the local police authority. You will not be able to find the owner for privacy reasons, but the owner is able to track the AirPods so they know exactly where they are at.
AirPods are not designed to be disabled. They have no locking feature, no password.
That “AirPods Pro Detected Near You” alert is Apple's way of warning you about possible unwanted tracking. It doesn't automatically mean someone's watching you, it means your phone noticed AirPods that are still tied to another Apple ID are moving with you.
Apple AirPods: How to Disable Stolen AirPods Remotely
To disable stolen AirPods, use the Find My app to locate and mark them as lost. This prevents pairing with new devices. You can also remove the AirPods from your Apple ID to stop access.
How to reset your AirPods and AirPods Pro