One of the most prevalent complaints about AirPods is that they occasionally cut off while in use.
Whether you’re listening to music or a podcast, there are several reasons why your AirPods are cutting out.
Continue reading to learn about potential reasons and how to address them.
What’s the deal with my AirPods not working?
AirPods are most likely clipping in and out due to Bluetooth connection issues, but it might also be due to a poor internet connection, low-powered batteries, competing for audio inputs, or obsolete software. It’s also possible that your AirPods are damaged.
It’s crucial to understand why AirPods cut out to figure out how to remedy the issue.
Below is a list of the top seven reasons.
The Bluetooth Connection Is Not Strong
Bluetooth is used to connect wireless earphones, such as AirPods.
While AirPods employ a newer protocol known as Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI), they still rely on Bluetooth.
As you travel further away from your device, the Bluetooth connection becomes weaker.
Stay as close to the audio-streaming device as possible.
Instead of leaving your iPhone on the table, place it in your pocket.
Interference is a reality.
Another thing to check is whether your iPhone’s Bluetooth connection is being hampered by something.
Wi-Fi, portable Bluetooth speakers, your microwave, cordless phone, baby monitor, and even your garage door opener all operate on the same frequency. 2.4 GHz connections are commonly used by wireless devices.
So, how does this affect your AirPods? It implies that even something as simple as your microwave oven can disrupt your Bluetooth connection and cause distortions.
Similarly, if you’re in a crowded place with a lot of people utilizing Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections, you’re more likely to have problems.
What choices do you have for dealing with this problem? Avoid congested regions if possible.
Stay away from other gadgets with active Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections if your roommates or family members are using them.
Avoid microwaves and unshielded cables as well.
You’re Using Wi-Fi To Stream
According to Apple, distortions are more likely to occur when listening to music or podcasts over the internet than when listening to content stored on your device.
The weak or disturbed Bluetooth connection may be caused by a problem with the Wi-Fi or mobile internet connection.
Start listening to songs you’ve downloaded and see if there’s a noticeable difference to check if it’s the AirPods or your internet connection.
If you are listening to music on your phone and someone keeps phoning or messaging you, you may have disturbances, especially if the call breaks off your mobile connection.
Similarly, if your AirPods drop out during a call, it’s possible that poor cellular reception is to blame.
The solution is simple. If you’re using Wi-Fi to stream anything, first download it and then stream it locally from your smartphone.
You can, for example, download content from Apple Music.
If you’re on the phone, move to a location with better cellular service, such as a window or outside.
If you’re using Wi-Fi to make a WhatsApp or other call, try phoning your contact directly (using their cell number).
Your AirPods are running out of juice
One of the most common reasons AirPods start cutting out is that they are defective.
If the battery in your AirPods runs out, they may have trouble connecting to your phone and transmitting audio.
You may notice distortions, and your AirPods may eventually shut down and stop working until you charge them again.
Recharge your AirPods to solve the problem. You may need to take a break from listening for a bit.
To avoid this problem in the future, charge your AirPods overnight or whenever you aren’t using them.
Your iPhone’s Battery Is Running Low
Even if your AirPods are fully charged, if your iPhone’s battery is low, it will eventually shut down.
You may not notice any distortions, but your music will cease playing completely when your iPhone turns down.
Make sure your phone has enough battery to listen to the complete episode.
While charging your phone, you may also listen to music.
The AirPods will be using a new audio source.
When AirPods are in range, Apple offers a capability that allows them to immediately switch to other devices.
You could, for example, have it connected to your Mac at work but your iPhone in the car.
However, if you have many devices in the same house, your AirPods may automatically transition from one to the other, cutting off your audio.
On each device, you have control over this setting. If you have an extra iPad, turn it off or disable this option in the settings if you have one.
On each device, here’s how to disable automatic switching.
You have out-of-date software or AirPods that aren’t working.
If you have a previous version of iOS, your AirPods may stop working.
This problem existed on older iPhones, but it has now been resolved in recent iOS releases.
The issue can be resolved by updating your device. Finally, there’s always the chance that your AirPods are physically damaged.
Check your iPhone for updates. If there are any, install them. Also, make sure you have the most recent iOS version installed.
Check for and install firmware upgrades for your AirPods as well.
Connecting them to your device and heading to your Bluetooth settings will allow you to do so.
Finally, if you believe your AirPods have a physical flaw, take them to an Apple Store so a professional can assist you in troubleshooting and repairing the problem.
Here’s where you can find an Apple Service Center.
If your AirPods are broken, or if you can’t find a repair place that can help you, you may need to purchase new ones.
Last Thoughts
We understand how aggravating it is to have your AirPods cut out regularly.
However, there is usually a simple remedy that you may employ to resolve the problem.
If one solution fails, try a different one.
