In the dynamic world of wireless audio technology, Apple’s AirPods have established themselves as a representation of ease and uninterrupted connection. But even top-tier tech can have problems from time to time, and a common problem that spoils an otherwise perfect experience is the AirPods microphone not functioning.
If your AirPods’ mics are silent, don’t fret! Check basic things like charge, connection, and cleanliness. Update firmware, adjust settings, and try restarting devices. If that fails, consider a reset or contacting Apple Support. Patience and the right steps will get your voice back in the mix!
In this post, we’ll try to figure out why this is happening so often and show you how to fix it so that your AirPods’ microphone works again.
No matter how much or how little experience you have with wireless headphones, we want you to come along as we investigate and fix the microphone problems that may be affecting your ability to communicate and the quality of your experience with AirPods.
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Why is my microphone missing on my AirPods?
When the microphone on your AirPods disappears, it’s annoying! Don’t panic, though; it’s probably just having a technical glitch rather than disappearing entirely. Here are some possible explanations and things you could try:
Software Problems
- Bluetooth connection: Sometimes reconnecting is all that is required. Reinstall the case on your AirPods, give them a 15-second break, and then connect them.
- Mic access: Verify whether microphone access is enabled in the application you’re using. Go to Settings > AirPods > [Your AirPods name] > Microphone on your iPhone, and make sure it’s set to “Always.”
- Update the software: An out-of-date firmware could be the problem. Update to the most recent version on your linked device and AirPods.
Hardware problems
- Debris or dirt: A blocked microphone can make it unusable. Make sure the mic holes are clean by using a gentle, dry brush.
- Moisture damage: The microphone may be impacted by spills or perspiration. If you have any suspicions, stop using it immediately and contact Apple Support.
- Physical damage: The microphone on your AirPods may get damaged if you drop or break them. If you think this could be the case, get repair alternatives by contacting Apple Support.
Troubleshooting advice
- Test the microphone: Make a call using another device (such as your phone) connected to your AirPods and see if they pick up your voice.
- Change microphones: Certain AirPods versions allow you to use either one or both of the microphones. See if switching helps by giving it a try.
- Reset your AirPods: If nothing else seems to be working, try resetting your AirPods. To keep from unintentionally unpairing them, according to the instructions on Apple’s support website.
The best method to acquire a conclusive diagnosis and repair alternatives if these steps don’t work is to get in touch with Apple Support.
How to Fix AirPods Microphone Not Working
Here are ways to fix the AirPods microphone that’s not working:
| How to Fix | Brief Description |
| Charge the AirPods. | Put the AirPods back in the case to let it charge. |
| Check microphone settings. | Disable the automatic mic selection. This will avoid the AirPods from switching between microphones while you’re speaking. |
| Disable noise cancellation. | If you’re using AirPods Pro or Max, disable the special modes to resolve the microphone issues. This includes turning off noise cancellation. |
| Clean the AirPods microphone. | Use a dry cotton swab to remove the dust and debris from the microphone and speakers. Also, clean the AirPods case using a lint-free cloth. |
| Reset the AirPods. | Re-pair the AirPods to fix microphone issues. |
| Update AirPods firmware. | If a firmware update is available, install it automatically to get rid of bugs and resolve other issues with the AirPods. |
| Check for water damage. | If water gets into your AirPods, it will get into the microphone and can cause damage. Dry them out completely. |
| Contact Apple Support. | Contact Apple Support to help you find an authorized service provider to repair your AirPods. |
If your AirPods are cutting out while you’re on a call, I have shared some simple fixes in this article.
How do I check my AirPods’ microphone settings?
Follow these steps to check the active microphone settings for your AirPods:
- Connect the AirPods to your iPhone.
- Go to Settings and select your AirPods.
- Choose Microphone.
- Choose Automatically Switch AirPods.
You can also select the left or right microphone to prevent automatic microphone switching while speaking.
Can you adjust AirPods mic sensitivity?
Yes, you can adjust AirPods’ mic sensitivity.
Follow these steps:
- Navigate to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the blue “i” next to My Devices.
- Choose Microphone.
- Choose Automatically Switch AirPod, Always Left AirPod, or Always Right AirPod.
Why can’t callers hear me on my AirPods?
There’s a good chance the audio isn’t being picked up due to debris that might be blocking the AirPod.
If one of the AirPods is blocked, the overall input audio capability will be affected. For that reason, the other person won’t be able to hear you.
In that case, you should clean the AirPods gently with a cotton bud to remove dirt and debris and see if the audio is better.
How do I unclog my AirPod mic?
Clean the AirPods to unclog the mic from dirt and debris.
Get a cotton swab and spray some rubbing alcohol in it – don’t get it too wet. Dab it slowly on the microphone to get rid of the gunk.
You can also use a toothpick or pair of tweezers to pry out the debris from the microphone. Do this slowly to avoid pushing in the dirt and damaging the mesh grill.
Check the video below on how to clean AirPods without damaging them.
How do I make my AirPods’ mic louder?
The best way to make your AirPods louder is to disable all the special modes including noise cancellation.
In theory, this improves the audio quality of your AirPods as well as resolves any microphone issues.
Pro Tip: If you’re using the 2nd gen AirPods, you can use Siri to adjust the volume on the microphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to clean the microphone on my AirPods?
To avoid lint, use a gentle, dry cloth. Avoid getting any liquid in the holes. Lightly wipe the speaker and microphone meshes with a dry cotton swab. After cleaning the meshes, use a dry, soft-bristled brush to remove any debris.
Why does the sound from my AirPods seem muffled?
The AirPods’ microphone can become muted if the battery life is getting low. Make sure both AirPods are completely charged before resetting them by holding down the button for setup on the charging case’s rear for 15 seconds. This should fix the issue.
Where can I find the microphone on my AirPods?
You can make and receive calls, record audio, interact with the Siri AI assistant, and more through the main mic, which is situated at the base of the earpiece. The second microphone, shaped like a black hole, will be housed on the exterior of the AirPods earpiece.
Final Say
As you can see, there are various ways to fix AirPods with microphone issues. It is highly advised that you go through all of the possible solutions before deciding to replace your AirPods.
Also, you must learn to diagnose the problem of why your AirPods mic isn’t working to arrive at the best solution that won’t cost you.
Still, you should consider replacing your AirPods if repairing them is going to cost more than buying a new one.
For more tips on how to fix AirPods issues, check out this article.