AirPods Microphone Not Working: Complete Fix Guide
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Updated 2026 • AirPods Pro, 2nd Gen, 3rd Gen, Max
Quick Diagnosis
- People can't hear you during calls?
- Microphone completely muted?
- Only one AirPod mic working?
- Mic worked before but stopped recently?
- Mic works in some apps but not others?
Fix #1: Check Microphone Settings
Success Rate: 40% • Time: 3 minutes
iPhone/iPad:
1. Settings → Bluetooth → AirPods → tap the "i" icon
2. Look for "Microphone" setting
3. If set to "Off" or "Phone Audio" change to "Automatic" or "AirPods Microphone"
4. Test call
Mac:
1. System Settings → Sound → Input
2. Select "AirPods" from the list
3. Make sure AirPods is the active input device
Sometimes the wrong audio input device is selected.
Fix #2: Reset AirPods
Success Rate: 55% • Time: 5 minutes
Step 1: Place both AirPods in the charging case
Step 2: Open the lid
Step 3: Press and hold the button on the back of the case for 10-15 seconds
Step 4: Wait for the light to flash amber then white (indicates reset)
Step 5: Close lid and pair AirPods fresh with your device
A reset clears firmware issues that affect microphone detection.
Fix #3: Forget & Re-pair AirPods
Success Rate: 50% • Time: 5 minutes
Step 1: Settings → Bluetooth
Step 2: Find your AirPods in the list
Step 3: Tap the "i" icon
Step 4: Select "Forget This Device"
Step 5: Place AirPods in case, then open case near your device
Step 6: Follow the pairing prompt
This clears pairing cache and forces a fresh Bluetooth connection.
Fix #4: Check App Microphone Permissions
Success Rate: 35% • Time: 3 minutes
iPhone/iPad:
1. Settings → [Your App Name] → Microphone
2. Make sure "Microphone" is toggled ON
3. Close and reopen the app
Mac:
1. System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone
2. Look for your app in the list
3. Make sure it has permission enabled
Apps can't access microphone if permission is blocked.
Fix #5: Update AirPods Firmware
Success Rate: 45% • Time: 15 minutes
Step 1: Put AirPods in case with lid open
Step 2: Keep iPhone/iPad nearby
Step 3: Settings → Bluetooth → AirPods → tap "i" icon
Step 4: Check firmware version
Step 5: Firmware updates automatically when case is near iPhone
Step 6: Wait 5-10 minutes, check version again
Microphone bugs are often fixed in firmware updates.
Advanced Troubleshooting
Only One AirPod Mic Working
- Reset AirPods (Fix #2)
- If one ear still doesn't work: defective microphone in that bud
- Requires replacement earbud from Apple
Microphone Works But Very Quiet
- Clean the mesh on each AirPod: gently wipe with dry cloth
- Lint buildup reduces mic sensitivity
- Make sure AirPods fit properly in ears
- Check app volume isn't too low
Mic Only Works With One Device
- AirPods can only pair to one device at a time
- Forget from other devices if you want primary connection to switch
- Or use Automatic Switching: Settings → Bluetooth → AirPods → toggle ON
When to Seek Professional Help
- All fixes tried, microphone still doesn't work
- Only one AirPod mic works after reset
- Microphone works but extremely garbled/distorted
- Settings show AirPods but no input device detected
Replacement Options
- Apple Store (warranty): Free replacement if under 1 year
- AppleCare+ coverage: $99 service fee for replacement
- Out of warranty: $89 for standard AirPods, $129 for Pro
Need a backup? Wireless earbuds with mics on Amazon — great alternative while troubleshooting.