AirPods Mic Not Working? Let’s Get It Fixed With Ease!

If you’re having trouble using the microphone on your AirPods, you’re not alone. Many AirPods users have encountered issues with their mic not working properly, resulting in muffled or distorted audio for the person on the other end of a phone or video call.

Fortunately, most AirPod microphone problems can be resolved through a few simple troubleshooting steps. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the common causes of AirPods mic malfunctions and provide expert tips to get your microphone back up and running.

Common Causes of AirPods Microphone Issues

There are several reasons why your AirPods microphone might stop working. Some of the most common culprits include:

• Physical obstructions or dirt: Over time, lint, earwax, and other debris can accumulate in the small microphone holes on your AirPods, causing muffled or distorted audio. This is especially common if you frequently keep your AirPods in a pocket or bag without the protective case.
• Incorrect microphone settings: If your AirPods microphone settings are not configured properly, the mic may not work as expected. For example, if the microphone is only enabled for one AirPod or if the “Automatically Switch AirPods” option is turned off, you may experience issues.
• Software or firmware glitches: Like any technology, the software and firmware that power your AirPods can sometimes malfunction or become outdated, leading to microphone problems. Bugs in the AirPods firmware or in the operating system of your paired device can cause the mic to cut out or stop working entirely. In some cases, you may notice your AirPods won’t flash white, indicating a pairing issue that can affect the microphone.
• Bluetooth connectivity issues: Since AirPods rely on Bluetooth to connect to your phone or other devices, any interference or instability in that connection can impact the microphone’s performance. If your AirPods are frequently disconnecting or if there are other Bluetooth devices nearby causing congestion, the mic may not work reliably.
• Hardware damage or defects: In some cases, physical damage or manufacturing defects can cause permanent microphone issues. If your AirPods have been exposed to water, crushed, or otherwise damaged, the delicate microphone components may be broken beyond repair. You may also encounter related issues like one AirPod dying faster or AirPods sounding too quiet.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Now that we’ve covered the potential causes, let’s dive into the troubleshooting process. Follow these steps in order until your AirPods microphone is working again:

1. Visual Inspection and Cleaning

Start by giving your AirPods a thorough visual inspection. Check the small microphone holes (located on the bottom of the stem) for any visible obstructions like lint, earwax, or debris. If you notice any gunk or foreign objects blocking the openings, it’s time for a careful cleaning.

To properly clean your AirPods microphone:

1. Dab a cotton swab or soft-bristled toothbrush in isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to sanitize and help break up any tough buildup.
2. Gently brush around the microphone hole, dislodging any debris. You can also try carefully picking out stubborn particles with a toothpick or tweezers.
3. Avoid getting any liquid into the AirPods, and never submerge them in water or cleaning solutions.
4. Allow the AirPods to fully dry before placing them back in the charging case or your ears.

2. Check Your Microphone Settings

If you’ve ruled out physical obstructions, the next step is to ensure your AirPods microphone is enabled and configured correctly. Here’s how:

1. Open the Settings app on your paired iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap “Bluetooth” and find your AirPods in the list of devices.
3. Tap the “i” icon next to your AirPods.
4. Under “Microphone,” make sure “Automatically Switch AirPods” is selected. This allows the mic to seamlessly switch between your left and right AirPod as needed.

If “Always Left AirPod” or “Always Right AirPod” are selected instead, you may run into problems if the microphone on the designated side is blocked or malfunctioning. Switching to automatic mode is the most reliable option.

It’s also worth checking your iPhone’s microphone settings to make sure they are configured properly and not interfering with your AirPods mic.

3. Restart and Reconnect

Still not working? Try restarting your AirPods and re-establishing the Bluetooth connection. This can resolve a variety of glitches and connectivity hiccups:

1. Place both AirPods in the charging case and close the lid for at least 30 seconds.
2. Open the lid and check the case’s charge status light. If it’s flashing amber, the AirPods are ready to pair. If it’s not flashing, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the light starts blinking.
3. While the AirPods are still in the case, restart your paired iPhone or iPad.
4. Once your device has restarted, open the AirPods case lid and follow the on-screen prompts to reconnect.
5. Test the microphone again by recording a Voice Memo or making a call.

If the issue persists, move on to the next troubleshooting step. You may also want to check if your AirPods case is charging properly, as a drained battery can sometimes cause connectivity and microphone issues.

4. Update AirPods Firmware

Apple periodically releases firmware updates for AirPods to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features. If you’re running outdated firmware, you may experience issues with the microphone and other functions. Here’s how to check for updates:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad and tap “General.”
2. Tap “About” and select “AirPods” from the list.
3. Look at the “Firmware Version” number. If it’s lower than Apple’s latest release (found on their support website), it’s time to update.

To initiate a firmware update, make sure your AirPods are in the charging case with the lid closed and placed near your iPhone or iPad. Keep the paired device connected to the internet and plugged in or charged above 50%. Within 30 minutes or less, the AirPods should automatically download and install the latest firmware version.

5. Reset Your AirPods

If your microphone is still not working after completing the steps above, you may need to fully reset your AirPods. This wipes all previous pairings and settings, giving you a fresh start:

1. Place your AirPods in the charging case and close the lid.
2. Wait at least 30 seconds, then open the lid.
3. On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth and tap the “i” icon next to your AirPods.
4. Tap “Forget This Device” and confirm.
5. With the AirPods case lid still open, press and hold the setup button on the back until the status light flashes amber and then white (about 15 seconds).
6. Close the lid, wait a few seconds, then open it again. Your AirPods are now reset and ready to pair as if they were brand new. Hold them close to your iPhone or iPad and follow the on-screen connection prompts.

After resetting and repairing, thoroughly test the microphone again. If it’s still not working properly, there may be a hardware issue requiring professional service. You can also try using the “Find My” feature to locate your AirPods if you suspect they may be lost or misplaced rather than malfunctioning.

6. Contact Apple Support or Seek Repair

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your AirPods microphone still isn’t functioning, it’s time to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider for help. There could be a more complex software issue or an internal hardware problem that requires special tools and expertise to diagnose and fix.

If your AirPods are still under warranty or AppleCare+ coverage, repairs or replacements may be free or discounted. If not, expect to pay out of pocket for service. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a new pair of AirPods rather than repairing severely damaged ones.

Tips for Optimal AirPods Usage and Maintenance

While the troubleshooting steps above can resolve most AirPod microphone issues, there are also some best practices you can follow to keep your earbuds working properly and avoid future problems:

Extend battery life with one AirPod at a time: If you don’t need to use both AirPods simultaneously, try alternating between them to prolong the overall battery life. Keep one in the charging case while using the other, then swap as needed. This ensures you always have a fully charged AirPod ready to go.

Monitor AirPods battery levels: To check the current charge of your AirPods and charging case, open the case near your paired iPhone or iPad. A popup window will display the battery status of each component. You can also add the Batteries widget to your device’s Today View to see AirPods charging information alongside your other devices.

Locate lost AirPods with Find My: The Find My app on iPhone, iPad, and Mac can help you track down missing AirPods. Open the app, select your AirPods from the list, and you’ll see their last known location on a map. If they’re within Bluetooth range, you can also play a sound to help locate them. Keep in mind that sometimes the “Find My” sound may show as pending if your AirPods are out of range or disconnected.

Adjust microphone settings for optimal performance: If you prefer to always use one particular AirPod for the microphone, you can change the default setting. Go to Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods > Microphone and select “Always Left AirPod” or “Always Right AirPod” instead of the automatic switching option.

Enable automatic in-ear detection: AirPods can sense when they’re placed in your ears and automatically play or pause audio accordingly. This also helps conserve battery life when you’re not actively using them. To turn this feature on or off, go to Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods and toggle the “Automatic Ear Detection” switch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is my AirPods mic not working on calls? There are a few reasons why your mic might not work during calls, including dirt/debris blocking the microphone opening, incorrect settings, software glitches, and hardware damage. Try cleaning your AirPods, checking the microphone settings, restarting and repairing them, and updating the firmware using the troubleshooting steps outlined above.
2. Can I fix physically damaged AirPods myself? While you can clean your AirPods and perform basic troubleshooting at home, it’s not recommended to attempt repairing serious physical or internal damage yourself. AirPods contain delicate components that require special tools and skills to fix properly. Taking apart or tampering with your AirPods can cause further damage and void any remaining warranty coverage. Always seek professional repair service from Apple or an authorized provider.
3. What if troubleshooting doesn’t resolve my AirPods microphone issue? If you’ve followed all the troubleshooting steps and your AirPods mic still isn’t working, contact Apple Support for further assistance. They can run additional diagnostic tests and determine if a repair or replacement is necessary. You can also visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider for hands-on help.
4. Are there software updates that can fix AirPods microphone problems? Yes, Apple occasionally releases firmware updates for AirPods to address bugs and improve performance, including fixing issues with the microphone. Make sure your AirPods are running the latest version by checking the firmware number in the Settings app and following the update instructions provided above.
5. Can I use my AirPods microphone on a plane? In most cases, yes! AirPods work on planes and you should be able to use the microphone feature without issue. However, some airlines may restrict the use of Bluetooth devices during takeoff and landing, so it’s always best to check with your specific airline for their policies regarding AirPods and similar wireless earbuds.

Key Takeaways

• AirPods microphone issues can be caused by physical obstructions, incorrect settings, software glitches, Bluetooth interference, or hardware damage.
• To troubleshoot, clean your AirPods, check the mic settings, restart and repair, update the firmware, and reset if necessary.
• If problems persist, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider for professional assistance.
• Regularly clean your AirPods, keep the firmware updated, use the Find My feature to locate lost earbuds, and enable in-ear detection for the best experience.
• Most AirPods microphone issues can be resolved at home with basic troubleshooting, but some may require expert repair or replacement.

Conclusion

Dealing with AirPods microphone issues can be frustrating, especially when you need to make an important call or record audio. Fortunately, most problems can be fixed by following the simple troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide. From cleaning the microphone openings to adjusting settings and updating firmware, there are several effective ways to get your AirPods mic working properly again.

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting techniques and are still experiencing microphone issues, don’t hesitate to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider for further assistance. In some cases, professional repair or replacement may be necessary to address hardware damage or defects.

By properly maintaining your AirPods, keeping them clean and updated, and storing them safely in the charging case when not in use, you can avoid many common microphone issues and enjoy reliable, high-quality audio for years to come. With the right care and attention, your AirPods will continue to be a convenient and indispensable part of your daily life.