Apple’s AirPods changed the earbud game when they first came out years ago. With multiple options now available, including the impeccablesecond-generation AirPods Pro, they remain hugely successful formany reasons. But what do you do when one AirPod isn’t working?
Since there isn’t a single reason behind this AirPods issue, there isn’t a single solution either. The reasons may vary from basic issues like low battery or dirty AirPods to more intricate problems such as network or audio settings issues. Therefore, if one AirPod isn’t working, it’s advisable to go through troubleshooting steps until your AirPod begins functioning properly.
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Check out some steps you can follow below to hopefully fix the problem. The potential solutions are listed from simplest to most complex, so try them sequentially, checking to see if your AirPod is working after each step.
The advice provided in this guide is applicable to all AirPods versions, including AirPods 1 and 2,AirPods Pro, andAirPods Max.
1Perform a quick case reset
Refresh the Bluetooth connection
This is the simplest fix, so it’s a good place to start:
2Check the battery
One AirPod may not work due to a depleted battery
AirPods can discharge at different rates, so even if charged simultaneously, one may lose power first. Monitor your battery life and charge if necessary. To charge AirPods:
3Toggle Bluetooth on and off
The Bluetooth adapter might need to be reset
Reset Bluetooth if the audio isn’t transmitting correctly from your device to the earbuds. On an iPhone, for example:
4Adjust the audio balance
The balance could be skewed to one AirPod
Check to make sure the balance isn’t skewed, directing all sound to only one AirPod. If you’re using an Apple device:
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5Restart your device
Restarting can resolve technical hiccups
Restarting clears active memory and can rectify temporary problems, so a quick device restart might help. To restart an iPhone:
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6Clean the AirPods
They could be clogged
Sometimes, dust and other accumulated debris can obstruct sound output in one AirPod. Check for buildup and clean your AirPods accordingly if the speakers appear clogged. Just make sure you’re not pushing the dirt further into the speakers. Here are basic instructions for cleaning AirPods:
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7Reset your AirPods connection
Forget and re-pair your AirPods
If previous steps fail,reset your AirPods. Follow the unpairing and re-pairing steps:
This should reset things completely and refresh your AirPods' connection with your iPhone or iPad. In many cases, this will completely clear up connection issues.
8Reset network settings
Network settings affecting Bluetooth connections may be causing the issue
Resetting network settings can help, though you’ll need to re-pair Bluetooth devices and re-enter Wi-Fi passwords. Tryresetting the network settings on your iPhoneor whatever device your AirPods are connected to. On iPhones:
9Update the operating system
Your device might need a software upgrade
Updating your iPhoneor whichever device you’re using might resolve the problem, as updates often include bug fixes. Download and install updates as they’re free and relatively quick. Your iPhone should update automatically, but you can manually update it by following these steps:
10Seek assistance from Apple
A professional will know what to do
If you’ve tried everything above and issues persist,contact Apple supportfor expert help.
