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Why do My AirPods Keep Cutting Out
Why do My AirPods Keep Cutting Out: AirPods are Apple’s version of Bluetooth headphones. Since its launch in 2016, there have been four main models, with the latest third-generation AirPods featuring the new, proprietary MagSafe charging case. Most AirPods have an optimal reception range of 30 to 60 feet.
However, users reported a connection-related issue on their AirPods. Some AirPods often get disconnected from the Apple device; some of them don’t connect at all. There are multiple reasons for this issue, and we are here to help you resolve them.
This article will show you all you need to know about why do my AirPods keep cutting out and the fixes in this guide can be applied to different models of Apple AirPods: 2nd generation, AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, and Beats and Bluetooth headphones. So if you’re having connection issues on your AirPods, read on for more information.
Why do My AirPods Keep Cutting Out or Glitching?
Before getting into the solutions, it is essential to know that the working principle of AirPods revolves around Bluetooth technology. It is a short-range wireless radio wave used in various devices, including wireless headphones.
While wireless headphones like Apple’s AirPods are comfortable to wear, the nature of the connection also makes them prone to connection issues. The problem can come from the source (computers, laptops, and smartphones) or the AirPods. Now are some of the reasons why your AirPods appear and disappear:
Lack of Power
AirPods and Bluetooth headphones, in general, are known to consume more power to maintain a stable connection. So if your AirPods are dying fast, even if you just charged your AirPods, it could be a clear sign that the battery is dead.
Software or Setup Issues
Setting up your AirPods only takes two steps: open the top cover and press the setup button on the back of the case. After that, your AirPods should be ready to go. However, in some instances, AirPods suddenly disconnect or crash due to an update or settings change.
Signal Interference
Your AirPods are susceptible to interference from other nearby Bluetooth devices. In addition, environments with nearby radio waves (Wi-Fi, microwave ovens) and poorly shielded cables can also cause signal interference.
Hardware Issues
Suppose your AirPods were previously damaged, submerged in water or liquids, or not used for an extended period. In that case, there is a chance that your device has significant hardware damage to internal parts. This causes your AirPods to behave incorrectly.
How to Fix My AirPods Keep Cutting Out
Now that you know all the possible reasons why your AirPods keep disconnecting, here are some fixes you can apply. Most of them refer to the source of your connection (laptop, smartphone, and computer).
Also, be sure to check out each solution and see which one works well for you.
Solution #1: Improve Your Bluetooth Connection
When listening to streamed audio content, your headphones may lose connection more often. Try to fix your device by doing the following:
- Please turn on your AirPods and connect them to your device via Bluetooth.
- With the device, a few feet from your AirPods, try listening to music or audio content stored on your device using your headphones.
- If you’re listening to music on an Apple device, open the Music app or iTunes and play a song that doesn’t have a download button (cloud with a down arrow) next to it.
- On Android devices, try playing downloaded music from your default music player and see if your AirPods usually work.
Another thing to avoid when using Bluetooth devices is interference. This leads to audio distortion and sudden disconnection from the source. Here are things that can improve your Bluetooth connection:
- Keep your iPhone, computer, Android device, or laptop at the optimal distance. Make sure there are no obstacles between you and your devices, such as thick walls or floors.
- Get away from busy environments: places with Wi-Fi activity, microwave ovens, cable connections, and other wireless devices. This environment is not ideal for your AirPods and can cause further damage to the internal components.
Having a good Bluetooth connection is essential if you need to find your AirPods when they’re dead or offline.
Solution #2 – Unpair and Re-pair Your AirPods
This works well, especially if you’re having constant connection issues: Airpods hook up and drop out all the time. One trick is to unpair and re-pair your AirPods with the device. This is how you can do it:
To unpair your AirPods from an iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth. Alternatively, swipe up to open Control Center, then press the Bluetooth icon. Choose Bluetooth settings.
- Select the AirPods and press the Information button.
- Tap Forget this device.
- Then restart your iPhone.
Unpair from an Android device:
- Go to Settings > Connected devices > Connection settings.
- Select Bluetooth and find your AirPods in the list of paired devices.
- Tap Unpair and restart your device.
Here’s how to re-pair your AirPods with your iPhone:
- With your iPhone on the home screen, open the AirPods charging case and hold it close to your iPhone. A setup animation will appear.
- Touch Connect and follow the instructions on the screen. Depending on the model of your AirPods, you may be required to sync Siri with your AirPods as part of the setup process.
- Then tap done.
To re-pair your AirPods with an Android device:
- Swipe down to open the notification panel. Tap the Bluetooth sign to turn it on.
- Open the AirPods charging case and keep it close to your phone.
- Then press the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes white.
- Find your AirPods in the list of nearby Bluetooth devices and tap to pair them.
Solution #3 – Check the Battery Level of the AirPods
After not using your AirPods for a long time, you may need to charge them first to make them work usually. As soon as the AirPods have a low battery level, you may experience sudden crashes and disconnections.
To check the battery-operated level of your AirPods using the battery widget, please do the following:
- Apply the widget to your screen from the Widgets page. Touch and hold anywhere on your home screen until you see a plus button in the top right corner of the screen.
- Tap on it and use the search bar to type batteries and select Add Widget.
- You can use the widget to see the battery level of your AirPods.
Typically, you’ll charge your Airpods in their case, but you can also charge Airpods without the case.
Solution #4 – Update the Firmware of Your AirPods
Your AirPods must have updated firmware to connect wirelessly to your device seamlessly. Follow these steps to check if your AirPods are running the latest available firmware:
- Make sure AirPods are in their charging case and connected to your iPhone.
- Go to Settings > General > About.
- Select the connected AirPods. Displays the device information, including the firmware version. For example, if it’s 4C165, your AirPods should be up to date.
There are currently no methods to manually update your AirPods, as they will update automatically whenever there is a new firmware version.
Solution #5 – Disable Automatic Wear Detection
One of the unique features of your AirPods is Auto Wear Detection, which allows AirPods to automatically detect whether or not they are attached to your ear. Unfortunately, while this can be a helpful feature, it can cause connection issues.
To disable automatic wear detection on your iPhone, do the following:
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Select your paired AirPods and tap the information icon.
- Set the Automatic Ear Detection setting to off.
Conclusion
Why do my AirPods keep cutting out, Apple AirPods are among the best in terms of sound quality, ease of use, and portability. Whether you’re using an Apple device or not, they’re easy to set up as long as your device has Bluetooth capability up and running.
However, nothing is more annoying than listening to your favourite music while disconnecting from time to time. So if it annoys you that your AirPods or AirPods Pro keep disconnecting every few seconds, try these fixes and see which one works best for you. If your AirPods have hardware defects, your best option is to contact Apple Support or buy a new one.
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