How To Fix AirPods Microphone That’S Not Working

So many of us use our AirPods to talk just as much as listen. And to accommodate all the talking, Apple has made them for top-quality that outperforms most competitors. AirPods are usually 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 is not working, luckily, it’s not the end of the world. Read on for six tips to fix the problem before giving up.

1. Put Them Back in the Case Then Try Again

This easy trick has been known to fix the microphone issue and several others. If the microphone on your AirPods is acting up, put them on a time out by placing them in their case for, say, 30 seconds. Remove them, then try again. This may work as it resets the Bluetooth connection with your device and hopefully restores everything as it should be.

2. Restart Your iPhone

Turning your Apple device off then back on again is another classic fix that sometimes resolves some fundamental computer problems. The issue could be caused by something in your iPhone. For example, a software driver that allows the microphone to work with a specific app, restarting it can be the quickest way to resolve any temporary bugs or glitches.

3. Ensure They Are Fully Charged

Your microphone may not be working 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, it will likely interrupt the microphone function. Try charging your AirPods to see if that resolves the issue.

4. Clean the Microphone

Here’s another simple tip to try before moving on to re-pairing them or looking at the settings. Ensure the microphone is not dirty or clogged. Where is the mic on the AirPods, you may ask? On the AirPods or AirPods Pro, the microphone is at the end of the AirPods’ stems. If they look dirty, give them a quick clean using cotton swabs and a soft cloth. After cleaning the mic holes, wipe away any grime.

5. Check the Microphone Settings

Perhaps the microphone problem appears to be with just one AirPod, for example, the left AirPod works fine, but the right has stopped working. The problem might be a result of the settings. Ensure your AirPods are connected to your iPhone before trying the steps below:

1. Open the “Settings” on your iPhone.
   
2. Select “Bluetooth.”
   
3. Beneath “My Devices,” go to your AirPods and tap the “I” info icon, then choose “Microphone.”
   
4. Ensure the “Automatically Switch AirPods” option is enabled.
   
5. Now try using the mic again to see whether that’s solved it.

6. Forget the Device and Repair It

Try resetting the AirPods then reconnecting them to your iPhone. Follow these steps to do that:

1. Place the AirPods in their case, and close it for 30 seconds.
   
2. Leave your AirPods inside the case with it open.
   
3. Via your iPhone, navigate to “Settings,” then “Bluetooth.”
   
4. Tap on the info icon beside the AirPods.
   
5. Choose “Forget This Device.”
   
6. Tap “Forget Device” twice just to make sure.
7. With the lid still left open, long-press the setup button at the back until the light flashes amber, then white.
8. Now hold your charging case close to your iPhone.
   
9. A “Not Your AirPods” notification should appear on your screen. Press “Connect.”
10. Follow the instructions, then once your AirPods have been re-paired with your iPhone, hit “Done.”

If none of the above tips have worked, you may need to consider replacing or repairing them. Although AirPods are typically robust, they are still delicate, and wear and tear will ultimately take its toll. Consider taking your AirPods to your local Apple store for a service or contacting Apple Support.

AirPods Mic Check 1, 2, 3…

Apple’s AirPods can be relied on for talking as much as listening. However, at times the mic may seem like it’s not working. As long as they’ve been maintained well, there are many quick fixes available. Many AirPods users have found that simply putting them back into the case for a while, restarting the iPhone, or fully charging them helps. Other common solutions include going through the pairing process again by unpairing them first.

What do you enjoy the most about using your AirPods? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.