Using wireless headphones is extremely convenient – until they stop working properly. Few things are as frustrating as seeing your AirPods connect successfully to your device via Bluetooth but still not get any audio.
This issue leaves you scrambling to troubleshoot and get your earbuds functioning again. Understanding some of the common causes and solutions can help restore your AirPods’ sound quickly.
The root of an AirPods malfunction often lies in outdated software, low batteries, or minor technical glitches during pairing. Thankfully, many of these problems have easy fixes. With a few simple troubleshooting steps, you can get your wireless audio back so you can enjoy your music, videos, calls and more.
Let’s explore some effective ways to address the situation when your AirPods appear connected but no sound comes through.
Why Are My AirPods Connected But No Sound?
When your AirPods connect to your iPhone, iPad, MacBook or other device but you hear no sound, there are a few likely culprits to blame.
Here are some of the most common reasons connected AirPods fail to play audio:
Device Issues
Make sure to check your device first when dealing with no-sound AirPods. Some common device-related causes include:
- Low Volume – Check that your device volume is set loud enough to hear audio. It’s easy to accidentally limit volume.
- Wrong Output – Even though AirPods show as connected, your device may still route sound to its speakers or wired headphones by default. You need to manually change the audio output to AirPods in your device’s Bluetooth settings.
- Outdated Software – Having the latest operating system, drivers and firmware helps device/AirPods connectivity and performance. Out-of-date software can sometimes interfere with routing audio to AirPods properly.
AirPods Issues
Problems with the AirPods themselves can also lead to zero audio:
- Low Battery – Make sure your AirPods have enough battery charge left. Very low batteries can affect connectivity and audio transfer.
- Dirty Speakers – Debris buildup in the speaker and microphone grills can impair sound quality.
- Connection Problems – Glitches during initial pairing or intermittent connectivity issues will block sound. Resetting your connection usually fixes this.
Now let’s discuss some steps to troubleshoot and regain your wireless listening experience.
Troubleshooting Tips When AirPods Connect But Have No Sound
If your AirPods successfully paired with your device but you still hear no audio, work through troubleshooting ideas like these to resolve the no-sound issue:
1. Confirm Connection and Sound Output
First, verify Bluetooth is transmitting sound properly:
On your device, ensure AirPods show up as a connected Bluetooth device under settings. Connect/disconnect them if needed.
With AirPods in ears, play media like music and check if audio plays from device speakers instead.
Explicitly set AirPods as audio output device in Bluetooth settings. Default output sometimes gets reset to device speakers.
2. Check Device Sound Settings
If AirPods connect properly but remain silent, make sure your device isn’t muted:
Inspect volume controls on device and media apps to guarantee neither are muted or volume set extremely low.
Ensure device isn’t set to a Do Not Disturb mode with silenced audio. Disable this if so.
Open device volume mixer to check app volumes in case a media app got muted.
3. Reset AirPods Connection
If connection issues arise, resetting AirPods often helps:
Place AirPods in case, close lid for 15+ seconds, then reopen case. This resets connection and resyncs to your device.
On Apple devices, go into Bluetooth settings and choose “Forget this Device” for AirPods then repair them from scratch. This clears up connectivity glitches.
As another option on Apple gadgets, open the case near device and press & hold setup button on back of AirPods case for 15+ seconds to force reset them to your device.
4. Clean AirPod Speakers
Don’t overlook hardware issues on the AirPods themselves:
Use a soft-bristled brush or toothpick to gently dislodge any earwax and debris clogging the speaker grills on each AirPod.
Moisten a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol (or Apple-approved cleaner) and lightly brush grille openings to remove stubborn particles. Always avoid getting moisture in openings.
Inspect microphone openings also. Blocked mics can affect connectivity. Carefully clean with brush and rubbing alcohol swab if needed.
5. Update Software
Finally, outdated firmware could also prevent sound:
On Apple devices, install any pending iOS/macOS updates. Keeping system software current improves connectivity.
With AirPods nearby, open your device settings, choose General > About to check if AirPods firmware needs updating and install if so. This optimizes performance.
On Windows, make sure Bluetooth drivers are up to date in Device Manager. Update if available. Also, toggle “Hands-free Telephony” service to use Headset profile instead.
By methodically applying the right troubleshooting techniques, you can usually get your AirPods functioning properly again. But if you still don’t hear audio after trying these steps, contact Apple Support or your AirPods retailer for additional help rectifying your no-sound issue.
Just be sure to cover the basics in software and hardware first. A little troubleshooting goes a long way towards restoring your wireless listening pleasure.
Also Read: How to Disable Pop Up Blocker on iPhone: Easy Guide
