Have you ever connected your Apple AirPods to your phone but the sound keeps coming from the phone’s speaker instead?
This can be really frustrating. That’s why I created this guide to troubleshooting AirPods connected but sound coming from phone.
In this guide, I’ll provide practical strategies to address this issue. Let’s explore the solutions and restore the seamless audio experience you deserve.
Let’s begin.
AirPods Connected but Sound Coming From Phone
Is your AirPods Pro connected but sound coming from phone?
It can be frustrating if you connect your AirPods to your phone but still hear the sound coming from the phone’s speakers instead of the AirPods. This may happen due to various reasons, such as:
Software incompatibility
Outdated software
Incorrect settings
Low battery
This Apple iOS device isn’t the only one susceptible to this issue. Other wireless earbuds in the market can also face the same problems.
I’ll teach you how to fix this problem and other issues you might encounter below.
Why Is the Phone Playing Sound Even Though the AirPods Are Connected?
AirPod users appreciate their user-friendly design and advanced technology. However, tech enthusiasts would agree that even the most superb technology can encounter issues.
One of the most common problems AirPods users face is when they connect their Airpods, but the sound continues to come from their phone instead.
There can be several reasons for this, depending on your device’s system preferences or whether you’re using an Android or iOS device.
Sometimes, a simple fix like reopening your music app can do the trick. In other cases, you may need to exert a bit more effort to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
How To Troubleshoot AirPods Connection Issues
Here’s how to fix AirPods connection issues, whether you’re experiencing the following:
AirPods connected but sound coming from iPhone
AirPods connected but sound coming from laptop
AirPods connected but sound coming from Mac
Reset Your Phone’s Bluetooth.
Sometimes, reestablishing a stable Bluetooth connection will fix the issue right away.
Here’s how to reset Bluetooth settings on your phone.
1 – Open the Settings App on your iPhone and select Bluetooth settings menu.
2 – Turn off the Bluetooth switch and wait for 20 seconds.
3 – Turn the switch back on and reconnect your AirPods by selecting them from the list.
Another way to do this is to swipe down on your iPhone’s home screen to access the control center. Tap the blue Bluetooth icon, and turn it back on.
Reset AirPods.
If the first method didn’t work, try resetting your AirPods. Disconnect them from your iPhone and forget the device. Here’s how:
1 – Open Settings and go to Bluetooth.
2 – Tap the info icon next to your AirPods.
3 – Choose Forget this Device to remove them.
4 – Turn on Bluetooth, put the AirPods in the charging case, and keep the lid closed.
5 – Press and hold the back button on the charging case until the status light blinks white.
6 – Your AirPods should connect to your iPhone.
Reset Your iPhone.
If resetting your AirPods didn’t work, the problem may be with your iPhone. Try resetting it to clear any software-related issues. Here’s how:
Press and hold the side and volume buttons for newer iPhone models until the Apple logo appears. Once it restarts, turn it back on.
Reset iPhone’s Network Settings.
There might be some issues with your current iPhone settings. If you can’t play sound from your Airpods, adjusting the settings might help.
1 – Go to Settings and tap General.
2 – Scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
3 – Tap Reset at the bottom of the screen.
4 – Select Reset Network Settings.
Turning Automatic Ear Detection Off.
AirPods have Automatic Ear Detection, which may interfere with sound playback. Turn it off by following these steps:
1 – Go to Settings app and tap Bluetooth menu.
2 – Under My Devices, tap the circled i icon next to your AirPods.
3 – Disable Automatic Ear Detection feature.
Disconnect Nearby Devices.
Bluetooth devices nearby also cause interference.
If the problem persists, try turning off other Bluetooth device peripherals nearby, like keyboards or Bluetooth headphones. Remove any linked device to your phone, as well.
Then reconnect your AirPods to your iPhone and check if this fixed the problem.
Update Your Phone’s Software.
Keeping your Apple iPhone updated helps avoid potential errors. Check for available iOS software updates by going to Settings > General > Software Update.
The same goes for an Android device.
Reset Your AirPods Factory Settings.
Here’s how to factory reset your AirPods:
Place your AirPods in the charging case and open the lid.
Locate the setup button on the back of the case and press it for 15 seconds.
You will see a white light flashing on the case.
Your AirPods should reset after closing the lid.
Now, try to play music on the same AirPods to see if that fixed your problem.
Update Your AirPods Firmware.
Your AirPods receive firmware updates automatically while charging and within Bluetooth range of your device connected to Wi-Fi. You can also use your device to check for the latest version of firmware on your AirPods.
To check the firmware version using your iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:
Go to Settings > Bluetooth, then tap the i button (Info) next to your AirPods’ name.
Scroll down to the About section to find the firmware version.
If you’re using Mac, here’s what to do:
1 – Choose Apple menu on the top left corner of the screen.
2 – Select System Preferences.
3 – Select Bluetooth and locate your AirPods to find the software version.
How To Fix Connected AirPods but No Sound in One Ear
If you’re hearing sound only on one Airpod, follow these simple steps to troubleshoot the problem.
Charge your charging case until it’s full.
Place both AirPods in the charging case and let them charge for 30 seconds.
Open the charging case near your iPhone or iPad.
Check the charge status on your mobile device to ensure both AirPods are charging.
Put both AirPods in your ears.
Play the audio and test both AirPods.
If one AirPod still doesn’t have sound, you can try resetting your AirPods or contact Apple Support for further assistance.
What To Do if These Steps Don’t Work
You can try these steps if any of these doesn’t resolve the issues:
Unpair your AirPods from your device in the Bluetooth settings or Devices screen.
Charge your AirPods and its case. If the case’s battery is empty, the reset button won’t work. Charge both and try to reset it again.
Charge your AirPods individually.
Connect the charging case to a power source. Plugging in the charging cable may fix reset issues. If it works, there may be a problem with the case’s battery.
Clean the charging case and your AirPods using a soft, dry cloth to wipe them down. You can also use a cotton swab to clean the charging port and speaker grills.
Reset your device’s network settings to help with Bluetooth device connectivity issues. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings on an iPhone or iPad.
If AirPods connected but sound coming from phone Android, go to Settings > System > Advanced > Reset options. Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
Contact Apple Support if all the solutions don’t work to fix AirPods connected on phone. They can provide more help or discuss a replacement pair if needed.
How To Reconnect AirPods After Forgetting Device
Forgetting your device will remove it from the saved Bluetooth list, but it won’t prevent your AirPods from being discoverable on Bluetooth.
Follow these steps to reconnect your AirPods after forgetting because AirPods say connected but sound coming from phone:
Open the lid of the AirPods case and press and hold the button on the back until the LED flashes white. This puts your AirPods in pairing mode.
Go to the Bluetooth list on your device. For iPhone users, look for the Other Devices list. For Android users, it may be called the Available Devices list. You should find it below your saved device list.
You should now see your AirPods listed. Select them from the list.
Finally, click or tap on Connect to establish the connection between your device and AirPods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Won’t My Airpods Connect to My Phone?
Most devices connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth. AirPods use this technology, as well. If it’s not connecting, there might be an issue with your phone’s bluetooth settings or your AirPods hardware. Make sure your Apple AirPods have enough power, as well.
Why Do My AirPods Say Connected but Not Working?
Here are some possible reasons:
Software incompatibility
Outdated software
Incorrect settings
Low battery
Try any of my solutions above to fix this issue.
Where Can I Find the AirPods Mic?
You can find your AirPods’ microphone on the stem. The mic can capture voice commands and phone calls. When using your AirPods for calls or interacting with Siri, ensure this area is facing you for the best sound quality.
Why Are My AirPods Mic Not Working?
Here are a few possible explanations for why your AirPods’ microphone stopped working:
Software or firmware issues
Connectivity issues
Physical damage
Obstruction or debris
Settings or permissions
Why Can’t Other People Hear Me With My AirPods On?
The problem might be with your mic. Try these steps to troubleshoot the issue:
Check the microphone access and permission settings on your phone.
Adjust the mic’s position.
Check your connection. Move closer to your phone and ensure there aren’t any interfering device.
Clean the microphone from dirt, debris, or wax buildup.
Restart your AirPods.
Update your phone and AirPods software.
Check for any physical damage and hardware issue.
How Can I Test My AirPods Mic?
Here are some easy methods to test your AirPods microphone:
Record a voice memo.
Use a voice recognition app.
Make a phone call.
How Can I Reset My AirPods Microphone?
Resetting just the microphone on your AirPods is not possible. However, you can reset your entire AirPods, which might fix microphone-related issues. Follow these steps to reset your AirPods:
Place both AirPods in the charging case.
Close the lid of the charging case.
Press and hold the button on the back of the charging case for approximately 15 seconds. Keep holding until the LED light on the case flashes amber.
Release the button after the LED light flashes amber, then open the charging case lid.
Your AirPods should now reset.
How Do I Select AirPods as an Audio Device on My iPhone?
To select your AirPods as the audio output device on your iPhone, follow these steps:
Open the control center by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen.
Locate the audio output controls.
Click the circular button with a triangle in it to expand the options.
Select AirPods the list of available devices. If it isn’t on the list, it’s not connected to your phone.
How Can I Tell if My AirPods Are Broken?
Here are a few signs you should look out for:
No sound or distorted sound
Connectivity issues
Physical damage
Battery life issues
Non-responsive controls
Are My AirPods Waterproof?
Apple does not officially classify AirPods as waterproof. The first and second-generation AirPods aren’t water-resistant, although they may withstand light moisture like sweat or rain. The AirPods Pro has an official IPX4 water resistance rating, which means they can handle some splashes, sweat, or light exposure to water.
The Bottom Line
If you’re thinking, “My AirPods are connected but sound is coming from speakers or phone?” there are a few quick fixes you can try before tossing your AirPods out.
Try any of the solutions above. If all else fails, reach out to Apple’s customer service for further support.
