Dealing with AirPods that won’t work during calls can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re trying to take an important business call or catch up with family. Let’s break down this common issue and get your AirPods working properly again.
Common Reasons for AirPods Call Issues
First things first – your AirPods might work perfectly fine for music but fail during calls for several reasons. The most frequent culprits I’ve seen are incorrect microphone settings, Bluetooth interference, or outdated firmware. Think of it like having a great TV signal for watching shows but getting static when trying to use cable channels – different features can have different problems.
Quick Fixes to Try First
Before we dive into more complex solutions, let’s try these immediate fixes:
• Put your AirPods back in their case for 10 seconds
• Check your Bluetooth settings and toggle it off/on
• Make sure your AirPods are selected as both input and output devices
Deep Dive Solutions
If those quick fixes didn’t help, here’s where we get more strategic. One often-overlooked solution I’ve found is checking your microphone settings. Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “i” next to your AirPods, and ensure the microphone is set to “Automatic.” I’ve seen countless cases where this simple adjustment made all the difference.
Dealing with Bluetooth Interference
Sometimes the problem isn’t your AirPods at all – it’s your environment. If you’re in an area with lots of wireless devices, try moving to a different room during calls. I once had a client whose AirPods would only act up when they were near their microwave!
When to Contact Apple Support
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get your AirPods working for calls, it might be time to reach out to Apple. But before you do, make sure to:
• Update your device’s operating system
• Reset your AirPods completely
• Test them with another device to isolate the problem
Preventive Measures
To avoid future issues, I always recommend keeping your AirPods clean and regularly checking for firmware updates. Think of it like maintaining your car – regular small maintenance prevents bigger problems down the road.
Remember, while these issues can be frustrating, they’re usually fixable. I’ve helped numerous friends and clients through similar problems, and in most cases, we’ve found a solution that works. Keep trying different approaches, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple if nothing seems to work – that’s what they’re there for!