AirPods have gained immense popularity among modern consumers for their exceptional audio quality and convenience. However, despite their remarkable value, some users have encountered performance issues that can dampen their listening experience.
One particular concern for AirPods owners is the occurrence of a buzzing, vibrating, or crackling noise during usage. This unwelcome buzzing sound can overshadow the incoming audio and significantly impact the usability of AirPods, including AirPod Pros and AirPod Max.
Thankfully, several straightforward measures and solutions are available to address the buzzing issue and restore the optimal performance of your AirPods. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore these solutions and provide a step-by-step approach to troubleshooting and eliminating the buzzing sound from your AirPods.
Why Do My AirPods Vibrate When I Talk?
Buzzing or vibrating AirPods can often be linked to performance or connection problems between the AirPods and your iPhone or playback device. Fortunately, many of these issues can be resolved by resetting the AirPods and your iPhone or reestablishing a stable wireless connection between the two.
The Reasons
Several factors can contribute to the humming or buzzing noise experienced by AirPods Pro users. It could be a technical defect, pairing issues between the AirPods Pro and the host device (such as an iPhone or iPad), faulty headsets, environmental disturbances, low battery levels, interference from other wireless devices, or obstructions in the connection.
These factors can help identify the buzzing sound’s root cause and find appropriate solutions. Another factor to consider is the possibility of debris or obstructions affecting the mechanics of your AirPods, leading to distorted playback.
Giving your AirPods a thorough and careful cleaning may eliminate the buzzing sensation and restore their sound quality. In some instances, the vibrating sensation may be attributed to defects, pairing issues, wireless interference from nearby devices, or even certain apps generating poor sound output.
If you encounter this problem, it is worth attempting to force quit the problematic app or unpairing and repairing your AirPods to see if that resolves it. When AirPods vibrate and emit a high-pitched, low-frequency sound, commonly described as hissing or buzzing, the issue may become more noticeable when the AirPods Pro is not in use.
Users have reported that the buzzing sound is more prominent in the right earbud compared to the left. While initial speculation leans towards a technical defect or pairing issue between the AirPods Pro and the host device, other factors may contribute to this humming or buzzing noise.
These include faulty headsets, environmental disturbances, low battery levels, interference from nearby wireless devices, or obstructions in the connection. Addressing these potential causes and troubleshooting steps can help you pinpoint the source of the vibrating sensation in your AirPods and guide you toward appropriate solutions.
The Solution
To tackle the problem head-on, you can fully re-pair and reset your AirPods. Start by unpairing or “forgetting” the device from your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings. Next, place both AirPods in their charging case and ensure they are adequately charged.
Open the case and press and hold the button on the back for at least 15 seconds or until the light flashes white. Then, hold the case near your iPhone and check if the pairing screen appears. If the screen doesn’t appear, repeat the process until it does.
If you still can’t see the pairing screen, you can manually pair the AirPods within the Bluetooth settings. If these steps don’t yield the desired results, it may be necessary to contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the ear tips of your AirPods fit properly. You can run the Ear Tip Test to confirm their fit, and you can also use your fingers to gently wiggle and lightly tug on the AirPods to assess if they are secure in your ears. A loose fit can contribute to the buzzing or vibrating sensation, so ensuring a snug and comfortable fit is important.
Why Are My AirPods Buzzing & How to Fix It?
One common cause is performance or connection issues. If your AirPods are old or damaged, it can lead to buzzing or static sounds. Additionally, if the connection between your AirPods and your device is weak or unstable, it can result in buzzing or interference.
Another possible reason is Bluetooth problems. Bluetooth signals can be susceptible to interference from other devices or objects in the environment, which can cause buzzing or distorted audio. Keeping your AirPods and the connected device nearby and minimizing obstructions can help improve the Bluetooth connection.
It’s also worth checking your audio accessibility settings. Certain settings, such as your device’s “Sound Balance” or “Mono Audio” settings, can affect the audio output and cause buzzing or uneven sound distribution. Adjusting these settings or disabling them may resolve the issue.
If the buzzing persists despite troubleshooting, it’s advisable to contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider to diagnose further and address the problem.
1. Reset the AirPods
The buzzing in your AirPods can often be attributed to a performance or connection issue. Resetting your AirPods can help resolve these issues. To reset your AirPods, place them in the charging case with the lid open.
Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds until the LED light flashes orange/amber. Then, forget the device on your iPhone and pair the AirPods again via Bluetooth.
2. Reset Your iOS Device
Sometimes the buzzing issue may be caused by a runtime issue with your iPhone or iOS device. Press and hold the power button to reset your iPhone until a power slider appears on the screen. Slide it to turn off the iPhone and wait a few seconds before turning it back on.
Open the Settings menu, go to the Bluetooth section, and ensure your AirPods are connected. If not, pair and connect them again.
3. Check Your Bluetooth Connection
A faulty Bluetooth connection between your AirPods and iPhone can lead to messy audio playback and buzzing. Toggle the Bluetooth on and off on your iPhone to see if it quickly solves the buzzing issue.
If not, go to the Settings menu, open the Bluetooth section, and click on the info symbol next to your AirPods label. Select “Forget This Device” and then reconnect your AirPods via Bluetooth.
4. Tweak Your Audio Accessibility Settings
If you experience buzzing in only one ear, you can try adjusting the Audio Accessibility settings on your iPhone. Open the Settings menu, go to the Accessibility section, select your AirPods, and open the Audio Accessibility options.
Turn on the Background Sounds switch and set the Background Noise type to “Rain,” with the volume slider set to zero. Doing so can activate a specific noise-cancellation feature that may fix the buzzing in one ear.
Why Are My AirPods Pro Rattling/Crackling & How to Fix It?
This problem develops over time and appears to be a hardware issue, as it doesn’t occur when ANC and Transparency Mode are turned off. The sound occurs when the earbud is subjected to movement or vibrations, such as walking, running, tapping the affected earbud, or playing music with a heavy bass.
Users have described it as something loose inside the AirPods Pro. One theory suggests that the external microphone may pick up tiny vibrations as sound and then attempt to cancel or amplify these non-existent sounds, resulting in the rattling noise. However, the exact cause is still uncertain.
While some speculate that it could be a hardware problem, Apple believes it might be related to wireless interference or a specific app. To troubleshoot this issue, Apple recommends following these steps:
1. Update Your Firmware & Software
Ensure you have installed the latest software updates on your connected iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac. Updating to the latest firmware can resolve the crackling or rattling issue.
2. Unpair & Reset Them
If the crackling sound persists, try unpairing your AirPods Pro from your device and resetting them. To unpair, go to the Bluetooth settings on your device, select your AirPods Pro, and choose the “Forget This Device” option.
To reset, place both AirPods Pro in their case, keep the lid open, press and hold the button on the back until the LED light on the front flashes amber, and then release the button. After resetting, re-pair your AirPods Pro with your device and check if the issue is resolved.
3. Test Audio Using a Different Application
If the crackling or rattling persists after updating and resetting, try playing audio from a different application to see if the issue is specific to a particular app. If the crackling sound is present across multiple applications, it indicates a potential hardware issue.
Does AirPods Case Vibrate?
While there isn’t a definitive answer to this question, some users have reported that their AirPods case vibrates when they receive a phone call, while others claim it does not. Further testing and user experiences are needed to provide a conclusive answer.
In some instances, AirPods users have encountered issues with notification sounds not functioning properly. While the AirPods themselves may not emit a sound for incoming calls or notifications, there is an option to set the AirPods case to vibrate instead.
To enable this feature, navigate to the Settings app on your iPhone, tap on “Notifications,” scroll down to “AirPods,” and ensure that both “Vibrate on Ring” and “Vibrate on Alerts” are enabled. Doing so lets you receive notifications through vibrations rather than relying solely on auditory cues.
Since its debut, Apple’s AirPods have captivated consumers with their innovative design and features. However, confusion arose regarding their potential to vibrate. It is important to note that the AirPods case itself does not vibrate.
Instead, the sensation users perceive as vibration is created when they press down on the ear tips of the AirPods. This tactile feedback aids in keeping track of the positioning of each earbud. The case is a protective enclosure for the earbuds and a charging station and notification center.
Its unique design incorporates various vibrations to indicate different types of notifications. However, these vibrations can confuse users who need to become more familiar with their meanings. The following clarifies the significance of each vibration:
- Short Pulse: Indicates a new message.
- Long Pulse: Signifies a new voicemail.
- Two Quick Pulses: Signals an active alarm on your phone.
- One Long Pulse followed by Two Short Pulses: Indicates an incoming phone call.
How Can I Get My AirPods Replaced?
Apple provides a limited one-year warranty for its AirPods, and if your AirPods encounter problems that cannot be fixed, they should be replaced. To initiate the replacement process, you have a couple of options. One way is to book an appointment at your nearest Apple Genius Bar, where an expert will assist.
You can book an appointment at the official Apple support website at getsupport.apple.com. However, it’s important to note that even if you schedule an in-store appointment, Apple may need to send your AirPods for testing before proceeding with the replacement.
Another option is to contact Apple’s support team through phone or online chat. They can guide you through the replacement process and address any concerns or queries you may have. Explain the troubleshooting steps you have already taken to save time during the conversation.
You can even provide a link to a relevant post or article that describes the steps you’ve tried. During the replacement process, Apple may require you to keep a certain amount of money in your account as a precaution, especially if the warranty does not cover your AirPods.
For instance, if your AirPods Pro has been damaged or exposed to water, the warranty will be void, and you will be responsible for the replacement cost. While AirPods Pro are water-resistant, they are not waterproof.
It’s important to exercise caution and prevent any water damage to your AirPods. Additionally, you must pay for the replacement if your original AirPods are over a year old. Rest assured that Apple will honor the original warranty for your AirPods or offer a 90-day extension to cover the replacement AirPods Pro. So, if you still encounter issues with the replacement AirPods Pro, you can get them replaced again.
Concluding Remarks
AirPods have become incredibly popular due to their exceptional audio quality and convenience. However, some users have experienced a vibrating, buzzing, or crackling noise issue that can affect their listening experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we have explored the causes behind these sounds and provided step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and eliminate them. The unsettling noise often occurs during movement while wearing the AirPods Pro and can diminish the seamless connectivity and impressive noise cancellation capabilities they offer.
Apple has provided troubleshooting steps that may serve as potential fixes. By addressing the buzzing or crackling noise issue in your AirPods, you can enhance your overall listening experience and fully enjoy the great wireless earbuds.
We have provided troubleshooting steps such as resetting the AirPods, resetting your iOS device, checking the Bluetooth connection, and adjusting audio accessibility settings. If you encounter problems with your AirPods that cannot be fixed, Apple provides a limited one-year warranty for replacements.
We have outlined the steps you can take to initiate the replacement process, either by booking an appointment at an Apple store or by contacting Apple’s support team. Following the solutions and troubleshooting steps in this guide, you can address the buzzing or crackling noise issue in your AirPods and restore them to their optimal functionality.
Enjoy your enhanced listening experience with your AirPods!
Related Readings:
Does AirPods Sound Quality Degrade Over Time?
Fix: AirPods say “Not your AirPods on iPhone (But They Are)
Are Fake AirPods Safe? Answered
Why Does AirPods Pro 2 Case Beep? (How to Fix It)
Why Do AirPods Pro Whistle? Here is Why
Why Do AirPods Make My Ears Wet? Here is Why!
Does AirPods Support aptX? Answered
Why Are My AirPods Charging Unevenly?
How To Fix AirPods Double-Tap Not Working – 9 Solutions
Integration is a music website focused on audio advice, how-to, tips & tricks and best plugins (free & paid). Read More…