Many of us use our AirPods for both talking and listening. And to accommodate all the talk, Apple has built them with superior quality that surpasses most competitors. AirPods are generally reliable, but the microphone seems to stop working from time to time. This can be frustrating as it prevents you from making hands-free calls or talking to Siri.
If the microphone on your AirPods isn’t working, fortunately it’s not the end of the world. Read on for six tips to fix the problem before you give up.
1. Put them back in the case and try again
This simple trick is known to fix the microphone problem and several others. If the microphone on your AirPods isn’t working, pause them by placing them in their case for, say, 30 seconds. Delete them and try again. This may work as it reestablishes the Bluetooth connection with your device and hopefully restores everything as it should be.
2. Restart your iPhone
Turning your Apple device off and on again is another classic solution that sometimes solves some fundamental computer problems. The problem could be caused by something on your iPhone. For example, a software driver that allows the microphone to work with a specific application, restarting it may be the quickest way to resolve any errors or temporary glitches.
3. Make sure they are fully charged
Your microphone may not work because your AirPods are not charged enough. Check how much charge is left in your AirPods by opening the case and holding it close to your iPhone. If the battery level is too low, the microphone function may be interrupted. Try charging your AirPods to see if that solves the problem.
4. Clean the microphone
Here’s another simple tip you can try before pairing them again or looking at the settings. Make sure the microphone is not dirty or obstructed. You may wonder where is the AirPods microphone? On AirPods or AirPods Pro, the microphone is at the end of the AirPods stems. If they look dirty, quickly clean them with cotton swabs and a soft cloth. After cleaning the microphone holes, wipe away any dirt.
5. Check microphone settings
Perhaps the microphone issue appears to be with only one AirPod, for example, the left AirPod works fine, but the right AirPod stopped working. The problem could be due to the configuration. Make sure your AirPods are connected to your iPhone before trying the steps below:
- Open “Settings” on your iPhone.
- Select “Bluetooth.”
- Under “My Devices,” go to your AirPods and tap the “I” info icon, then choose “Microphone.”
- Make sure the “Switch AirPods automatically” option is enabled.
- Now try using the microphone again to see if it is resolved.
6.Forget the device and repair it
Try resetting the AirPods and then reconnecting them to your iPhone. Follow these steps to do it:
- Place the AirPods in their case and close it for 30 seconds.
- Leave your AirPods inside the case with it open.
- Through your iPhone, navigate to “Settings” and then “Bluetooth.”
- Tap the info icon next to the AirPods.
- Choose “Forget this device.”
- Tap “Forget Device” twice just to make sure.
- With the lid still open, press and hold the setting button on the back until the light flashes amber and then white.
- Now hold your charging case close to your iPhone.
- A “Not your AirPods” notification should appear on your screen. Press “Connect.”
- Follow the instructions, and once your AirPods have re-paired with your iPhone, tap “Done.”
If none of the tips above have worked, you may need to consider replacing or repairing them. Although AirPods are typically sturdy, they are still delicate and wear and tear will eventually take its toll. Consider bringing your AirPods to your local Apple Store for service or contact Apple Support.
Checking the microphone of AirPods 1, 2, 3…
Apple AirPods can be trusted to talk and listen. However, sometimes it may appear that the microphone is not working. As long as they have been well maintained, there are many quick fixes available. Many AirPods users have found that simply putting them back in the case for a while, restarting the iPhone, or fully charging them helps. Other common solutions include redoing the pairing process by unpairing them first.
What do you enjoy most about using your AirPods? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
