AirPod Static Sounds: Troubleshooting and Repair Guide

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Stop crackling or static from your AirPods with these expert tips
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Are you trying to listen to music or chat on the phone, but one of your AirPods makes a loud and constant static sound? While the static sound can be pretty annoying, there are some easy things you can do to make the audio play properly again. Keep reading for different fixes for your AirPods and expert advice from phone repair specialist James Bell on troubleshooting common audio issues.

Quick Fixes for AirPod Static Noises

  • Try taking your AirPod out and putting them back in your ear.
  • Turn off the noise canceling or transparency mode on your AirPods.
  • Disconnect your AirPods from your device and reconnect to Bluetooth.
  • Put the AirPods in their case and perform a factory reset.
  • Update your device and your AirPods’ firmware.
Section 1 of 3:

How to Fix AirPod Static Noises

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  1. Remove the AirPod making the static sound from your ear and quickly put it back in. Some AirPods owners have found that this simple trick is enough to stop the noise from happening.
    • If it doesn’t work the first time, try taking the AirPod out and putting it back in a few times.
  2. Swipe down on the top-right side of your phone screen to access the Control Center. Press and hold your finger on the volume slider to open the audio controls. Then, set the Noise Cancellation or Transparency mode on the bottom to “Off.” [1]
    • Alternatively, ask Siri to control your AirPods by saying, “Hey Siri, turn off noise cancellation.”
    • To turn off noise canceling using your AirPods, press and hold down the button on the stem of the AirPod. Once you hear a high-pitched chime, your AirPods will switch to Transparency Mode.
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  3. Phone repair specialist James Bell says that the easiest fix for audio issues is disconnecting your AirPods from your device. Go into your Settings app and tap on the name of your AirPods. Select Forget This Device to unpair them. Put your AirPods in their case for about 10 minutes to restart them. Then, hold the case near your device and open the lid to pair them with your device again. [2]
    • Bell also recommends letting your AirPods fully charge before pairing them again to ensure they both have full battery.
  4. If you’re near a router, wireless speakers, microwave, or other cables, your AirPods may pick up interference that affects audio. Move your device closer to your AirPods to see if they have a better connection. Otherwise, try sitting in a different area so you’re less likely to deal with interference. [3]
    • Try downloading the audio files you’re listening to because you’re less likely to get interference if they’re saved to your device.
  5. If you’re still experiencing issues, performing a factory reset can make AirPods reestablish a better connection with your device. [4]
    • Disconnect your AirPods from your device’s Bluetooth and select “Forget This Device.”
    • Place your AirPods in their case with the lid open.
    • Hold the button on the case down for 15 seconds until the light flashes amber and white.
    • Open the AirPods case near your device to reconnect them.
  6. Put your AirPods in their case with the lid closed, and plug it into the charging cable. Keep your iPhone or iPad near your AirPods so any updates can install. If your phone, tablet, or computer has any available software updates, be sure to install them as well. [5]
    • Check your AirPods firmware by going into your Bluetooth settings, selecting your AirPods, and clicking the Info button. The current firmware versions for AirPods are:
      • AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C): 6F8
      • AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (Lightning): 6F8
      • AirPods Pro (1st generation): 6A326
      • AirPods (3rd generation): 6A326
      • AirPods (2nd generation): 6A326
      • AirPods Max: 6A326
      • AirPods (1st generation): 6.8.8
  7. Take out the AirPod making the static noise and check the mesh for any buildup or debris. If you notice any earwax or dirt, take the time to clean them out. [6]
    • Hold the AirPod with the dirty mesh facing up. Gently scrub the mesh with a soft toothbrush soaked with micellar water .
    • Flip the AirPod over and pat the mesh dry with a paper towel.
    • Wet the brush with distilled water, and gently scrub the meshes you cleaned. Pat them dry with a paper towel again.
    • Let your AirPods dry for at least 2 hours before charging or using them again.
  8. Make an appointment at your local Apple Store or an authorized service provider to inspect your AirPods. They’ll be able to determine if there’s something wrong that they can repair, or they may be able to replace them. [7]
    • All AirPods come with Applecare for one year after you purchase them. If your AirPods have any hardware issues, Apple will repair or replace the faulty parts at no charge.
    • Bell notes that some authorized repair shops offer insurance on AirPods, so you can get a replacement for a small fee if one of yours dies.
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Section 2 of 3:

What causes AirPods to make static noise in one ear?

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  1. If dirt, earwax, or other debris builds up in the meshes of your AirPods, they may distort audio or cause issues when you use noise canceling. Excessive buildup can also eventually damage the internal components and prevent them from working. [8]
  2. Bell mentions that damage to the internal components can prevent audio from playing properly, and that the battery commonly fails in one AirPod but not the other. If you recently dropped your AirPods or got them wet, there’s a good chance that damage caused your audio issues.
  3. According to Apple, some AirPods Pro made before October 2020 have manufacturing defects that could affect the sound quality. An Apple service provider can tell you if your AirPods are defective, and they will repair or replace them for free if they’re eligible. [9]
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Section 3 of 3:

How to Prevent Static Noise on Your AirPods

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  1. Any time you stop listening to your AirPods, put them in the case and ensure the lid stays closed. They’re a lot less likely to get debris caught in the meshes, and they have more protection from drops or damage. [10]
  2. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent dirt from damaging the internal components. Inspect your AirPods when you’re finished wearing them, and wipe them down with a dry, lint-free cloth to remove any external buildup. When the meshes look clogged, then gently brush them with a soft toothbrush and micellar water. [11]
  3. Applecare+ is the extended warranty that covers hardware and accidental damage to your AirPods for two years. Sign up for AppleCare+ within 60 days of buying your AirPods. When you need repairs or replacement, take your AirPods to an Apple store and pay the $29 USD service fee to have them fixed. [12]
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      Tips

      • Bell mentions that AirPods usually only last 2-3 years before the amplifier inside wears out, so you may need to get repairs or replacements if you have an older pair.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.macworld.com/article/233479/how-to-turn-noise-cancellation-on-or-off-with-airpods-pro.html
      2. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-lk/guide/airpods/iph561965261/web
      3. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/102530
      4. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/118531
      5. ↑ https://www.tomsguide.com/how-to/how-to-update-airpods-firmware
      6. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/120409
      7. ↑ https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues
      8. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/120409
      9. ↑ https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues
      1. ↑ https://www.headphonesty.com/2022/06/how-not-to-lose-airpods/
      2. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/120409
      3. ↑ https://www.apple.com/support/products/headphones/

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