Symptoms
- Caller can't hear you while wearing AirPods
- Your voice sounds muffled through AirPods
- Mic works for Siri but not calls
- Switching to phone speaker fixes the issue
Likely causes
- CommonDebris covering the AirPods microphone meshEarwax or dust on the small mic openings blocks sound from reaching the mic.
- CommonBluetooth connection glitchA weak or unstable Bluetooth link can cause the mic to stop transmitting mid-call.
- PossibleLow battery in the AirPod acting as the micAirPods can shift mic duty between earbuds, and a low-battery one may cut out.
- PossibleOutdated AirPods firmwareFirmware bugs affecting call audio are occasionally fixed in updates.
- Less commonInternal microphone hardware failure in one AirPodLiquid exposure or age can damage the mic in one earbud.
What to do
- Inspect both AirPods' microphone mesh openings and gently clean with a dry, soft-bristled brush.
- Put both AirPods back in the case, close the lid for 30 seconds, then reopen and reconnect.
- Check both AirPods' battery levels in Settings and charge them if either is low.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the (i) next to AirPods, and select Forget This Device, then re-pair.
- Check for a firmware update by keeping AirPods in the case, connected to power, and near the iPhone for a while.
- Test the mic using only one AirPod at a time to isolate which one has the issue.
- Make a test call using the iPhone's built-in mic to confirm the problem is with the AirPods specifically.
- If one AirPod's mic consistently fails after cleaning and resetting, it likely needs replacement.
Tools and parts
- Soft-bristled brush
Replacement AirPod (single unit)Search: “single replacement airpod”
When to call a pro
If one AirPod's mic fails consistently after resetting and cleaning, Apple or a repair provider can replace that individual earbud.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.