Why Do My AirPods Keep Cutting Out: Steps to Solve the Problem

by | Jun 8, 2023

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Short Answer:

AirPods may keep cutting out due to reasons like a weak Bluetooth connection, outdated software, ear detection malfunction, hardware issues, or battery issues. Solving this may require updating software, resetting the AirPods, cleaning, or adjusting the ear detection feature.

Nothing is worse than when you’re taking an important call such as a work meeting, or an interview for a job, and your AirPods cut out mid conversation. This happened to me, numerous times.

When you buy Apple products, you put your trust in them to provide you with a product that operates smoothly, with little to no troubles.

Since you’re reading this article, you’ve likely asked, “Why do my AirPods keep cutting out?” And luckily for you, I’ve experienced this issue and found the solution for it.

Let’s get to it.

Why Do My AirPods Keep Cutting Out?

Your AirPods can disconnect for several reasons, ranging from low battery levels to Bluetooth interference.

To fix this problem, you first need to know why it is happening. If you want to skip right to the fixes, click here.

Battery Levels

One of the most common causes of AirPods disconnecting is low battery levels. If your AirPods don’t have enough charge, they might keep cutting out. Always ensure your AirPods are fully charged before using them for an extended period.

Bluetooth Interference

Bluetooth interference is another common reason for your AirPods cutting out. Other devices in your vicinity that are using Bluetooth can interfere with the connection between your AirPods and your device.

Distance from Device

If you move too far from your device, your AirPods might disconnect. Bluetooth has a specific range, and moving outside this range can cause your AirPods to cut out.

Ear Detection Malfunction

One possible reason why your AirPods may be cutting out is an issue with the ear detection feature. AirPods are designed with built-in sensors to detect when they are in your ears.

If these sensors malfunction, it can lead to inconsistent audio playback, causing your AirPods to cut out at random intervals.

Software Bug

It is not uncommon for electronic devices to have software glitches. While there is no way to update AirPods, it is important to make sure the iPhone, or other device your AirPods are paired to is fully updated.

Bad Hardware / Broken AirPods

Although unlikely, it is possible that your AirPods have hardware damage, resulting in them not working properly.

How to Fix AirPods Keep Cutting Out

If you’re experiencing this problem, don’t worry. Here are some steps you can take to rectify the situation. Chances are, it’s an easy fix and you’ll be back to full operation soon enough.

Check the Battery Levels

Make sure that your AirPods have enough charge. If they are low on battery, charge them for a while before using them again.

If you know you have an important meeting coming up, make sure your AirPods have a full charge prior to it.

Reduce Bluetooth Interference

Try to reduce the number of active Bluetooth devices in your vicinity. Also, keep your device closer to your AirPods to ensure a steady connection. It is possible your AirPods are trying to connect to another device near them.

Reset Your AirPods

If none of the above steps work, you might need to reset your AirPods. This step often resolves any lingering issues causing your AirPods to disconnect.

To reset your AirPods, just hold the button on the back of your AirPods case for 15 seconds.

Turn Off Ear Detection

To turn off ear detection, follow these instructions:

  1. Open “Settings” on your iPhone.

  2. Tap “Bluetooth”.

  3. Tap on the ‘i’ next to your AirPods.

  4. Toggle Off the Ear Detection feature.

  1. Open “Settings” on the paired iPhone.
  2. Select “Bluetooth”.
  3. Tap on the ‘i’ next to your AirPods.

  4. Toggle Off Ear Detection.

After following these steps, try using your AirPods again to see if they continue to cut out. If they do, there may be another issue at play.

Update Your Paired Device

To update the iPhone that your AirPods are paired to, follow these instructions:

  1. Open “Settings” on the paired iPhone.
  2. Select “General”.
  3. Tap “Software Update”
  4. If your iPhone is not up to date, do that now.

Contact Apple Support

If none of these troubleshooting steps helped, you may need to contact Apple Support. There could be hardware issues with your AirPods.

Buy New AirPods

If you still haven’t resolved the AirPods disconnecting issue, it is likely your AirPods are broken. If you would like to purchase another pair of AirPods, use the link below:

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my AirPods keep cutting out when I move?

AirPods could cut out when you move due to a disrupted Bluetooth connection or issues with the ear detection feature. Ensure a stable connection and check your ear detection settings to fix this.

Why do my AirPods keep cutting out when playing music?

If your AirPods are cutting out while playing music, it could be because of a weak Bluetooth connection, an outdated software version, or malfunctioning ear detection.

Try updating your device’s software, resetting your AirPods, or adjusting your ear detection settings.

Why do my AirPods Pro keep pausing?

AirPods Pro may keep pausing due to inaccuracies in the ear detection feature or a software issue. You might need to update the software or reset your AirPods to resolve this issue.

Why do my AirPods keep disconnecting with full battery?

Even with a full battery, AirPods might disconnect due to a weak Bluetooth connection or outdated software. Consider updating your device’s software or resetting your AirPods.

Ken Lynch

by Ken

Ken is a Data Analyst in the Healthcare industry and the owner and sole contributor to The Wearable Guy.

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