AirPods Connected But No Sound: How to Fix This Annoying Issue

Have you ever experienced your AirPods connected but no sound coming out?

This can be quite frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of a workout, trying to relax with your favorite tunes, or in the middle of a work meeting.

In this guide, we will explore various reasons why this would happen, as well as troubleshooting methods to fix the “AirPods connected but no sound” issue and help you enjoy your listening experience once again.

AirPods Connected But No Sound: What Would Cause This?

There are several reasons why your AirPods might be connected but not producing any sound. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the common causes

• Incorrect audio output settings: Make sure your device’s audio output settings are set to use your AirPods. Check the device-specific instructions in the previous sections for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
• Low volume: Increase the volume on your device to ensure it’s not set too low, causing the no sound issue.
• Dirty AirPods: Clean your AirPods’ speaker grills using a soft brush or cotton swab to remove any dirt or debris that might be blocking the sound.
• Low battery: Charge your AirPods in their case for at least 15 minutes before trying them again to ensure they have enough battery life.
• Connectivity issues: Reset your AirPods to address any connectivity problems that might be causing the no sound issue.
• Outdated software: Update your device’s software to the latest version to ensure compatibility with your AirPods.
• Hardware issues: If none of the above steps work, contact Apple Support for further assistance, as there might be a hardware problem with your AirPods.

Check Your Audio Output Settings

When your AirPods are connected but not producing any sound, the first thing to check is your device’s audio output settings. Here’s how to do this on different devices:

When your AirPods are connected but not producing any sound, the first thing to check is your device’s audio output settings. Here’s how to do this on different devices:

On iPhone or iPad

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap on Bluetooth.
3. Find your AirPods in the list of devices and tap the (i) icon next to them.
4. Make sure “Output To” is set to your AirPods.

On Mac

1. Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
2. Choose Sound.
3. In the Output tab, select your AirPods as the output device.

Adjust the Volume on Your Device

Sometimes, the issue may be as simple as the volume on your device being set too low.

Make sure to increase the volume on your device to see if the sound starts playing through your AirPods.

Clean Your AirPods

Dirt and debris can build up in your AirPods’ speaker grills, leading to the “AirPods connected but no sound” issue.

Carefully clean your AirPods using a soft brush or a cotton swab to remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking the sound.

If you have a bottle of compressed air hanging around, that can clean out your AirPods and their case.

Check AirPods Battery Life

Ensure that your AirPods have enough battery life to function properly. Low battery levels can result in poor audio quality or no sound at all.

Charge your AirPods in their case for at least 15 minutes before trying them again.

If you’re impatient like I am, use the Anker super charger, which will charger your AirPods 3x as fast as any other charger. These chargers are also compatible with your iPhone and Apple Watch.

Reset Your AirPods

Resetting your AirPods can help resolve any connectivity issues, including the “AirPods connected but no sound” problem. Follow these steps to reset your AirPods:

1. Place both AirPods in their charging case and close the lid.
2. Wait for 30 seconds, then open the lid.
3. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the LED light flashes amber, then white.
4. Reconnect your AirPods to your device.

Reset Your Bluetooth

On iPhone or iPad

1. Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap “Bluetooth.”
3. Toggle the Bluetooth switch off and wait for a few seconds.
4. Put the Bluetooth switch back on to re-enable Bluetooth.

On Mac

1. Click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
2. Select “Turn Bluetooth Off.”
3. Wait for a few seconds.
4. Click the Bluetooth icon again, and select “Turn Bluetooth On.”

On Android

1. Open the “Settings” app on your Android device.
2. Tap “Connections” or “Connected devices,” depending on your device model.
3. Select “Bluetooth.”
4. Toggle the Bluetooth switch off and wait for a few seconds.
5. Put the Bluetooth switch back on to re-enable Bluetooth.

On Windows

1. Right-click on the Bluetooth icon in the system tray (near the clock) or search for “Bluetooth” in the Start menu.
2. Select “Open Settings” or “Bluetooth & other devices settings.”
3. Toggle the Bluetooth switch off and wait for a few seconds.
4. Put the Bluetooth switch back on to re-enable Bluetooth.

On Apple Watch

1. Press the Digital Crown on your Apple Watch to open the app grid.
2. Open the “Settings” app.
3. Scroll down and tap “Bluetooth.”
4. Toggle the Bluetooth switch off and wait for a few seconds.
5. Put the Bluetooth switch back on to re-enable Bluetooth.

Update Your Device’s Software

Outdated software on your device could cause connectivity and sound issues with your AirPods. Make sure your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is running the latest software version.

Contact Apple Support

If you’ve tried all of the above troubleshooting steps and your AirPods are still connected but not producing sound, it’s time to contact Apple Support.

They can help you determine if there’s a hardware issue with your AirPods and guide you through the next steps, including repair or replacement options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is only one AirPod playing sound?

This issue could be due to incorrect audio settings, low battery, or dirt blocking the speaker grill. Check the settings, charge your AirPods, and clean them if necessary

How do I check my AirPods’ battery level?

On an iPhone or iPad, open the Control Center and tap the battery widget. On a Mac, click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar and hover over your AirPods.

Can I use AirPods with non-Apple devices?

Yes, AirPods can be connected to non-Apple devices via Bluetooth, but some features may be limited.

AirPods connected but no sound

There could be several reasons why your AirPods are connected but there’s no sound, including low battery, dirt or debris in the speaker grill, an issue with the Bluetooth connection, or a software glitch on your device.

Can I use Siri to control the volume on my AirPods?

Yes, you can ask Siri to increase or decrease the volume of your AirPods, as well as perform other audio-related tasks.