Apple users often face issues while making calls using their AirPods. To fix this, users can grant microphone access in Settings, clean the AirPods, or get them replaced at an Apple service center. Another solution is to change the microphone settings in the AirPods settings. By selecting either the left or right earbud as the microphone input, users can resolve the calling issue. However, this may affect the efficiency of the noise cancellation feature during calls.
AirPods
are an accessory these days for almost all Apple users. The basic reason behind this is the seamless connectivity AirPods offer across the Apple ecosystem. That said, there are times when users face issues while
taking calls
using AirPods from their iPhone or while making audio or video calls via instant messaging apps like WhatsApp, iMessage or any other app of their choice.
Basic issues with the AirPods
There’s a chance that the AirPods do not have microphone access. So, head to Settings and grant access. Sometimes, the microphone is muted and that results in issues while making the calls.
If these things are fine with your AirPods and you are still unable to make calls, try cleaning up the AirPods and then try.
If you are still facing the issue, then there’s a possibility that the microphones of the AirPods isn’t working properly.
So, the question is how you should fix this problem?
The solution
The most common solution is to take your AirPods to the
Apple Authorised service centre
and get them replaced or fixed. However, there’s another way to fix it and Apple has included this right within the Settings app.
So, Apple has included the option for users to use either left or right earbuds as the microphone input for calls or other actions. The default here is Automatic mode which automatically decides which earbud to use for calls.
However, it is likely that one of the earbuds is working fine and if you switch to the right one, then the calling issue can be fixed easily.
How do we do that? Well, the option is right within the AirPods settings. All you need to do is follow the steps mentioned below.
- Open Settings
- Tap on AirPods option at the top
- In the AirPods settings page, scroll down and then choose Microphone option
- Now, before changing the settings, make a call to someone with whom you can confirm that the voice is going through and then change the settings to left earbud once and try speaking over the call and confirm if the caller is able to listen to your voice. If it is not working, switch to the right one and repeat the same process again.
Most likely, one of the two earbuds will work properly and the voice will go through properly.
There’s a but
Now, we all know that AirPods are equipped with a noise-cancellation feature for calls. Making the switch will most likely reduce the efficiency of the call noise cancellation feature. So, the Microphone settings -- Voice isolation, Wide spectrum and Standard -- won’t work. The Standard mode will still function, but the Voice isolation and Wide Spectrum feature may get compromised.
FAQs
To fix this, users can grant microphone access in Settings, clean the AirPods, or get them replaced at an Apple service center. Another solution is to change the microphone settings in the AirPods settings. By selecting either the left or right earbud as the microphone input, users can resolve the calling issue.
Why do my AirPods not connect to a call? ›
Update your iPhone or iPad to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Put both AirPods in the charging case and make sure that both AirPods are charging. To make sure that Bluetooth is on, go to Settings > Bluetooth. If your AirPods are connected, make sure that they're selected as your audio device.
Why are my AirPods not letting me talk? ›
Assuming your AirPods are charged and connected, you can try tactics like rebooting your devices, flipping Bluetooth and/or Automatic Ear Detection off and on, and making sure all available software and firmware updates are installed. You should also clean your AirPods and check their microphone settings.
How to grant AirPods microphone access? ›
Set the microphone location for your AirPods
- Wear your AirPods, and make sure they're connected to your device.
- Do one of the following: On iPhone or iPad: Go to Settings , then tap the name of your AirPods near the top of the screen. ...
- Select Microphone, then choose one of the following:
Do one of the following: Make a call: Double-tap either of your AirPods to activate Siri, wait for a chime, then make your request. You can also make a call on your device, such as in the FaceTime app or Phone app . Answer or end a call: Double-tap either of your AirPods.
How to test AirPod microphone? ›
How do I test an AirPod microphone? You can test your AirPod microphone by connecting your AirPods to your computer and opening a sound recording app. You can take recordings of yourself speaking to ensure the audio is being captured properly.
How do I reset my AirPods? ›
Do one of the following: AirPods (all generations) or AirPods Pro (all generations): Put the AirPods in their case, close the lid, then wait 30 seconds. Open the lid, then press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds, until the status light flashes amber, then white.
How to make calls automatically connect to AirPods? ›
How do I get my Airpods to be the default option for phone calls? Settings->Accessibility->Touch->Call Audio Routing and then select from, AUTOMATIC, BLUETOOTH or SPEAKER. Hope this helps you.
Why can't people hear me through my AirPods? ›
AirPods' mics not working properly is often because of incorrect system or software settings, the microphones being muted within an app, or having another mic connected to the same device. Bluetooth conflicts with other devices can also cause the microphones on an Apple AirPod to seemingly turn off or disconnect.
How do I get my AirPods to talk? ›
Make sure that your AirPods or your compatible Beats headphones are paired to your device in Settings > Bluetooth. Go to Settings > Notifications > Announce Notifications and make sure that Announce Notifications is turned on.
Clean the microphone and speaker meshes gently with a dry cotton swab. Remove any debris from the meshes with a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush. Don't use sharp objects or abrasive materials to clean your EarPods.
Why are my AirPods not picking up calls? ›
Reset your AirPods. This will erase all of their settings and data, and may fix the microphone issue. If you're using AirPods Pro, make sure that the microphone is not blocked by earwax or other debris. Try connecting your AirPods to a different device.
How do I get my AirPods to work as a microphone? ›
Go to "Settings" > "Bluetooth, find your AirPods in the list, tap the info (i) icon next to them, and make sure "Microphone" is set to "Automatic" or your AirPods.
Why can't I access my microphone? ›
Make sure apps have access to the microphone
Here's how: Select Start > Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone and make sure Microphone access is turned on.
How do I make AirPods my default answering call? ›
How do I get my Airpods to be the default option for phone calls? Settings->Accessibility->Touch->Call Audio Routing and then select from, AUTOMATIC, BLUETOOTH or SPEAKER. Hope this helps you.
How do you reset your AirPods? ›
Return AirPods to factory settings
AirPods (all generations) or AirPods Pro (all generations): Put the AirPods in their case, close the lid, then wait 30 seconds. Open the lid, then press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds, until the status light flashes amber, then white.
Why are my AirPods static when I answer a call? ›
Make sure that you have the latest software on your connected iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac. Check that your connected device is nearby, and there's no wireless interference or obstructions between you and your device. Listen to audio from a different app to see if the app causes the issue.
