AirPods Connected But No Sound: 18 Fixes 2024 [Solved]

Facing the "AirPods connected but no sound" issue? Discover 18 quick solutions to fix your AirPods connected but no sound on iPhone, MacBook, or PC. Solved!

Experiencing the issue of “AirPods connected but no sound“? You’re not alone. Many AirPods users face this frustrating problem across different models, such as AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max. It also shows up on various devices like iPhones, MacBooks, PCs, and laptops. But don’t worry. We list 18 effective solutions to help you quickly resolve this issue and enjoy seamless listening again. Read on to discover the simple steps.

AirPods Connected But No Sound

4 Basic Fixes for AirPods Connected But No Sound

When your AirPods are connected but no sound, starting with some basic fixes can often solve the problem quickly. These simple steps can help reset the connection and get your AirPods working again.

1. Reconnect Your AirPods

Disconnecting and reconnecting your AirPods can often fix sound issues. This process refreshes the connection and can clear up minor issues.

What You Need: Your AirPods and the device they’re connected to.

  • Step 1: Open the Bluetooth settings on your device (iPhone, MacBook, PC, etc.).
  • Step 2: Find your AirPods in the list of connected devices and tap or click to disconnect them.
  • Step 3: Wait a few seconds, then reconnect your AirPods by selecting them in the Bluetooth menu.
  • Step 4: Check if the sound returns.
AirPods Are Connected But No Sound

2. Check the Volume

Sometimes, the solution is as simple as adjusting the volume for your AirPods. It’s easy to overlook, but low volume or muted sound on the connected device might be the issue.

What You Need: Access to the volume settings on your device.

  • Step 1: Check the volume levels on your device and ensure they are not set to the minimum.
  • Step 2: Try adjusting the volume directly on your AirPods if they have volume control, or use the device’s controls to turn up the sound.
  • Step 3: Make sure “Mute” is off in your device’s sound settings.

3. Restart Your Device

A quick restart of your device (iPhone, MacBook, PC, or laptop) can refresh the system and resolve minor connectivity issues with AirPods.

What You Need: Access to your device’s power or restart settings.

  • Step 1: Power off your device completely.
  • Step 2: Wait about 10 seconds.
  • Step 3: Power the device back on and reconnect your AirPods.
  • Step 4: Test to see if the sound is now working.

4. Check the Battery Level of Your AirPods

AirPods with a low battery might still connect to your device, but they won’t produce sound. Ensure that both the AirPods and the charging case have enough battery.

What You Need:

  • A charged AirPods case
  • Your device to check the battery status
Airpods Say Connected but No Sound

Steps:

  • Open the AirPods case near your iPhone, iPad, or MacBook.
  • Check the battery status of the AirPods on your device’s screen. If the battery is low, charge your AirPods and the case.
  • Once fully charged, reconnect your AirPods to see if the issue is resolved.

You may also need: Why Won’t My AirPods Charge? 10 Tested Fixes

These basic fixes are quick and easy ways to address AirPods connection issues. If the sound issue persists, move on to the next set of solutions for a deeper fix.

3 Regular Fixes: Adjust Device and Bluetooth Settings

If your AirPods are connected but still silent, adjusting your device and Bluetooth settings may help. These steps can fix Bluetooth-related issues and restore your audio.

5. Turn Bluetooth Off and On

Turning Bluetooth off and on can reset the connection between your AirPods and device, fixing any temporary issues.

What You Need: Access to Bluetooth settings on your device.

  • Step 1: Open Bluetooth settings on your device (iPhone, MacBook, PC, etc.).
  • Step 2: Toggle the Bluetooth switch off and wait a few seconds.
  • Step 3: Turn Bluetooth back on and reconnect your AirPods.
  • Step 4: Check if the sound is restored.

6. Forget and Re-pair Your AirPods

“Forgetting” your AirPods and pairing them again can help fix sound issues by creating a fresh connection.

What You Need: Your device with Bluetooth settings open.

  • Step 1: In Bluetooth settings, find your AirPods in the list of connected devices.
  • Step 2: Select your AirPods and choose the “Forget This Device” option.
  • Step 3: Confirm, then place your AirPods in their case and close the lid for a few seconds.
  • Step 4: Open the lid and reconnect your AirPods by selecting them from the Bluetooth menu.
  • Step 5: Test to see if the sound is back.

7. Reset Network Settings (iPhone Only)

For iPhone users, resetting network settings can sometimes solve Bluetooth connectivity issues affecting your AirPods.

What You Need: Access to your iPhone’s Settings.

  • Step 1: Go to Settings > General > Reset.
  • Step 2: Tap on Reset Network Settings and enter your passcode if prompted.
  • Step 3: Confirm the reset. Your iPhone will restart, and all network settings, including Bluetooth connections, will be reset.
  • Step 4: Reconnect your AirPods in Bluetooth settings and check if the sound issue is resolved.
Reset Network Settings iPhone

2 Deeper Fixes: Make AirPods Settings and Maintenance

If your AirPods say connected but no sound, it might be time to check their settings and perform some basic maintenance. These steps can help reset your AirPods, ensure they’re up-to-date, and keep them working smoothly.

8. Update AirPods Firmware

Keeping your AirPods’ firmware updated can improve performance and fix bugs that may cause sound issues. Read more: Latest AirPods Firmware Update for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4.

What You Need: An iPhone or iPad connected to Wi-Fi.

  • Step 1: Make sure your AirPods are connected to your iPhone or iPad.
  • Step 2: Keep the AirPods in their charging case, with the lid open, near your iPhone or iPad.
  • Step 3: Updates should install automatically when connected to Wi-Fi. To check, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the info icon next to your AirPods, and see if the firmware version matches the latest one on Apple’s website.
Update AirPods Firmware

9. Clean Your AirPods

Sometimes, dust or debris in the AirPods can block sound output. Regular cleaning can help maintain audio quality and connectivity.

What You Need: A soft, lint-free cloth and a dry cotton swab.

  • Step 1: Wipe the outside of each AirPod with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any dirt.
  • Step 2: Use a dry cotton swab to gently clean the mesh and speaker grills.
  • Step 3: Avoid using liquids or sharp objects that could damage the AirPods.
  • Step 4: Place the AirPods back in the case, reconnect to your device, and test the sound.

2 Additional Fixes: Software Updates and Compatibility

Sometimes, sound issues with AirPods can be related to outdated software or compatibility problems. Keeping your device and AirPods up to date and ensuring they’re compatible with each other can help resolve these issues.

10. Check for Software Updates on Your Device

Outdated software on your device can cause connectivity issues with AirPods. Make sure your iPhone, MacBook, or PC is running the latest version of its operating system.

What You Need: Access to your device’s software update settings.

  • Step 1: On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  • Step 2: If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
  • Step 3: For Mac users, go to System Preferences > Software Update and install any available updates.
  • Step 4: After the update completes, reconnect your AirPods and check if the sound issue is fixed.

11. Check Device Compatibility

Not all devices work perfectly with AirPods, especially older models or non-Apple devices. It’s important to verify that your device is compatible with AirPods to ensure full functionality.

What You Need: Your device model and the AirPods model.

  • Step 1: Check if your device is compatible with AirPods. For example, AirPods work best with iPhones, iPads, and Macs running iOS 10 or later, and macOS Sierra or later.
  • Step 2: For non-Apple devices (PCs or laptops), make sure your Bluetooth drivers are up to date and that the device supports Bluetooth audio.
  • Step 3: If you’re using an older device, consider updating the operating system or switching to a newer model to improve compatibility with AirPods.
  • Step 4: After ensuring compatibility, reconnect your AirPods and test for sound.

7 Advanced Fixes on AirPods Connected But No Sound

If you’ve tried basic and deeper fixes but your AirPods still won’t play sound, it may be time to check out some advanced solutions. These fixes address more specific issues, like sensor malfunctions, audio output settings, and potential interference from other devices.

12. Disable Automatic Ear Detection

Sometimes, the ear detection feature on AirPods can cause issues by mistakenly detecting whether your AirPods are in your ears, even when they’re not. Turning off automatic ear detection may help if the sensors are malfunctioning.

What You Need: Your iPhone or iPad with AirPods connected.

  • Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
  • Step 2: Scroll down and tap Bluetooth.
  • Step 3: Find your AirPods in the list of connected devices and tap the i icon next to them.
  • Step 4: Turn off Automatic Ear Detection.
  • Step 5: Test your AirPods to see if the sound issue is resolved.
Disable Automatic Ear Detection

13. Change Audio Output Source

If your AirPods are connected but no sound is coming through, it could be that your device is not sending audio to the AirPods. Changing the audio output source can fix this.

What You Need: Your device (iPhone, MacBook, or other connected device).

  • Step 1: On your iPhone or iPad, swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
  • Step 2: Tap the audio output icon (usually looks like a speaker or AirPods icon).
  • Step 3: Select your AirPods from the list of available output devices.
  • Step 4: Play some audio to check if sound is now coming through your AirPods.

If you’re using a MacBook:

  • Step 1: Click the volume icon in the menu bar.
  • Step 2: Select your AirPods as the audio output source.
  • Step 3: Test the sound.

14. Update Your Computer’s Bluetooth Driver

If you’re using AirPods with a computer (especially a PC or an older MacBook), outdated or corrupt Bluetooth drivers can interfere with audio output. Ensuring that your Bluetooth drivers are up to date can improve the connection and sound quality.

What You Need:

  • Access to your computer’s Device Manager or Bluetooth settings

Steps to fix Airpods connected to PC but no sound:

  • Open the Device Manager on your PC (you can search for it in the Start menu).
  • Scroll down and find Bluetooth.
  • Right-click on your Bluetooth adapter and select Update Driver.
  • Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the instructions.
  • Once updated, restart your computer and reconnect your AirPods.

Steps to fix Airpods connected to Macbook but no sound:

  • Go to System Preferences.
  • Click on Software Update.
  • If there’s a Bluetooth update available, install it, restart your Mac, and reconnect the AirPods.

15. Disconnect Other Bluetooth Devices

Multiple Bluetooth devices connected at once can sometimes cause interference with your AirPods’ audio. Disconnecting other devices may help solve the problem.

What You Need: Your AirPods and any other Bluetooth devices connected to your device.

  • Step 1: Open Settings on your device.
  • Step 2: Go to Bluetooth and look at the list of connected devices.
  • Step 3: Disconnect any devices you don’t need to be connected to at the moment.
  • Step 4: Reconnect your AirPods and check if the sound issue is fixed.

16. Try AirPods on Another Device

If the issue still exist, the reason might not the AirPods themselves. Testing them with a different device can help you figure out if the issue is device-specific.

What You Need: A second device with Bluetooth capability (like another phone, tablet, or computer).

  • Step 1: Disconnect your AirPods from your current device.
  • Step 2: Pair your AirPods with a different device (e.g., another phone or computer).
  • Step 3: Play some audio on the new device and check if sound comes through the AirPods.
  • Step 4: If the sound works on the second device, the issue is likely with your original device. If it doesn’t, your AirPods may need repair.

17. Reset Your AirPods

Resetting your AirPods to factory settings can fix issues by clearing any stored data or glitches.

What You Need: Your AirPods and charging case.

  • Step 1: Place your AirPods in their charging case and close the lid.
  • Step 2: Wait about 30 seconds, then open the lid.
  • Step 3: Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber, then white (about 15 seconds).
  • Step 4: Go to the Bluetooth settings on your device, reconnect your AirPods, and check for sound.

18. Contact Apple for Repair or Replacement

If none of these methods work, it’s possible that your AirPods are experiencing a hardware issue. Directly contact Apple for support might be the next best step.

What You Need:

  • AirPods, charging case, and proof of purchase (if applicable)

Steps:

  • Visit the Apple Support website or open the Apple Support app on your device.
  • Navigate to the AirPods section and explain your issue.
  • You may be asked to run a diagnostic test or arrange a repair.
  • If your AirPods are under warranty or covered by AppleCare, you may qualify for a repair or replacement.
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 How to Prevent AirPods Connection Issues in the Future

Once you have fixed the problem, you may want to know how to prevent it from happening again. This section could provide tips on maintaining the AirPods, device, and Bluetooth settings.

Possible Tips:

  • Regularly update the firmware and software of both AirPods and connected devices.
  • Avoid pairing AirPods with multiple devices at the same time.
  • Keep AirPods clean and free of dust or debris.
  • Use a charging case to ensure batteries are always fully charged.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with the “AirPods connected but no sound” issue is common, but it’s usually easy to fix. By checking your device’s settings, reconnecting your AirPods, and making sure they’re clean and updated, you can solve most problems. If the issue continues, it could be due to software bugs, interference, or hardware issues. In these cases, testing with different devices or contacting Apple support for help might be the best way forward. With a little patience and these steps, you’ll likely have your AirPods working again in no time.

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