Why Do My Air Pods Keep Cutting Out?

Are you frustrated with the recurring issue of your Air Pods constantly cutting out during your music sessions or phone calls? This common problem has left many Apple users perplexed and annoyed. Whether you’re on a jog, in the middle of an important conversation, or simply enjoying your favourite tunes, the sudden loss of audio connection can be a major inconvenience. In this discussion, we’ll talk about why your Air Pods might keep cutting out. Figuring out why it happens is the first step to fixing it, so you can enjoy your music without any interruptions.

What are the Reasons for Air Pods Keep Cutting Out?

1. Unstable Connection

Air Pods often have sound problems because of a shaky connection. This happens for a few reasons. One among these is the distance between your Air Pods and the paired device. Air Pods can talk to your device through Bluetooth, but they have a limit to how far they can reach, about 30 feet (9 meters). If you venture too far from your device, you’re likely to encounter intermittent audio dropouts. Also, things like walls and furniture can block the Bluetooth signal, making the problem worse. If your Air Pods are near lots of things in the way, like walls or stuff, their connection can get shaky and cause annoying sound cuts.

2. Air Pod Sensor Issues (Automatic Detection Issues)

Air Pods can experience cutting-out problems due to issues with their sensors. These sensors determine if the Air Pods are in your ears or not. If these sensors are dirty or damaged, they might not work correctly. In such cases, your Air Pods could mistakenly think they are not in your ears and pause the audio, even if they are actually in your ears. This sensor malfunction can lead to interruptions in your listening experience.

3. Low Battery

Air Pods often experience audio interruptions when their battery runs low. A dwindling battery can destabilize the Bluetooth connection, causing audio to cut out. To prevent this issue, ensure your Air Pods stay charged. You can check their battery level by opening the Control Center on your iPhone or iPad and tapping the battery icon. If your Air Pods do cut out due to low battery, just place them in the charging case. When you put your Air Pods in the case, they will charge by themselves. This means you’ll have them ready for your next use, and your music won’t cut out.

4. Firmware Outdated

Air Pods, like all electronic devices, operate using firmware—a crucial software that manages their core functions. Keeping your Air Pods’ firmware up-to-date is essential to ensure their optimal performance and address any known problems. Regular updates help maintain their functionality and resolve potential issues, enhancing your overall listening experience.

5. Audio Source Issues

Air Pods might have problems with the sound because of two things. One, the device you’re using to play music might not be working right. Two, the music file itself could be causing the issue. If your Air Pods’ sound isn’t good, make sure the thing playing music and the music itself are okay. Check both to be sure they’re working right. This step can help you identify and address the root cause of the cut-out issues.

6. Too Much Wireless Activity

Air Pods can cut out if there’s too much wireless stuff going on. They use Bluetooth to talk to your device, and Bluetooth shares the airwaves with other wireless things. So, when there’s a bunch of wireless stuff happening around, it can mess up the Bluetooth signal and make your Air Pods lose connection.

7. Hardware Defect

Air Pods can cut out due to hardware problems like issues with the Bluetooth chip, battery, or other internal components. If you’ve attempted the troubleshooting steps mentioned earlier and the problem persists, it might indicate a hardware defect. In such cases, seeking professional assistance or contacting Apple support may be necessary to resolve the issue.

8. Air Pods Got Damaged

Damaged Air Pods are more likely to have cut-out issues. They can get damaged if they’re dropped, exposed to water, or gather dirt and dust, especially in the sensors. To check for damage, look for cracks, dents, or other signs. If you see any, reach out to Apple Support for help.

9. Audio Player or Streaming Player Has Issues

If your music player or streaming device has problems, it can make your Air Pods cut out. That’s because these devices send the music to your Air Pods, and if they’re not working right, it messes up the music and causes your Air Pods to lose sound.

10. Air Pods Are Fake

Fake Air Pods are prone to cutting out compared to real ones due to their lower-quality materials and potential software issues. These imitation Air Pods lack the premium components found in genuine versions, making their performance less reliable. Additionally, software glitches in fake Air Pods can disrupt their connection, resulting in audio interruptions. To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to opt for authentic Air Pods to ensure a better and more consistent listening experience.

How to Fix Air Pods Keep Cutting Out?

1. Power Up Air Pods

If your Air Pods are acting up with sound cuts, start by giving them a power boost. Put them in their charging case, close it, and wait for about 30 seconds. Then, open the case, take out your Air Pods, and they should be good to go. This simple step can often fix small software and connection issues that cause audio interruptions.

2. Stay Within Bluetooth Range

Air Pods connect to your device using Bluetooth, which has a limited range of about 30 feet (9 meters). To prevent Air Pods from cutting out, keep your device close as this strengthens the Bluetooth signal. Avoid stowing your device in pockets or bags, which can block the signal. For laptops, changing its location can help. Lastly, steer clear of places with heavy wireless activity to avoid interference with the Bluetooth signal, ensuring uninterrupted Air Pods performance.

3. Disable In-ear Detection

In-ear detection is a neat Air Pods feature that plays audio when you wear them and stops when you remove them. It relies on sensors inside the Air Pods. If your Air Pods cut out, you can try turning off this feature, which might help, especially if the sensors are dirty or damaged. Here’s how:

• Open your iPhone or iPad’s Settings app.
• Go to Bluetooth.
• Find your Air Pods in the device list and tap the “i” icon next to them.
• Turn off the “Automatic Ear Detection” switch.

4. Check for Hardware Damage

If your Air Pods keep cutting out despite trying previous solutions, hardware issues may be to blame. Check for visible damage like cracks or dents. Clean them gently with a dry cloth; dirty sensors could be the culprit. Attempt a reset by placing them in the case, closing it, waiting 30 seconds, then opening it and holding the setup button for 15 seconds until the status light flashes. If problems persist, a hardware defect might be present, and it’s time to reach out to Apple Support for assistance.

5. Fix Audio Player or Streaming App

• Restart your audio app to tackle minor glitches.
• Update the app for bug fixes and better performance.
• Ensure a strong internet connection for streaming apps.
• If issues persist, try a different audio app to troubleshoot the problem.

6. Check For Firmware Update

• Connect Air Pods to your iPhone or iPad.
• Open Settings and tap Bluetooth.
• Locate Air Pods in the device list, tap the “i” icon.
• Look for Firmware Version; update if available.
• Tap “Update” and wait a few minutes for the process to complete.

7. Unpair the Air pods and Pair Them Again

a. To Unpair Air Pods:

• Go to iPhone/iPad Settings > Bluetooth.
• Tap the “i” next to Air Pods.
• Scroll down, tap “Forget This Device,” and confirm.

b. To Pair Them Again:

• Open the case near your iPhone/iPad.
• A setup animation appears; tap “Connect.”

8. Reset Air Pods to Factory Settings

To reset Air Pods:

• Place in charging case, close lid.
• Wait 30 seconds.
• Open the lid.
• Hold back setup button for 15s (flashing amber, then white).
• Release setup button.

9. Clean the Air Pods

To clean Air Pods:

• Wipe with a soft, dry cloth.
• If needed, use a slightly damp cloth, avoiding water entry.
• For mesh cleaning, gently brush with a soft toothbrush.
• Clean the charging port with a toothpick or cotton swab.

10. Reset Network Settings

To resolve Air Pods cutting out issues, resetting network settings on your iPhone or iPad can help. This clears any network-related problems. Follow these steps:

• Open Settings.
• Tap General.
• Scroll down to Reset iPhone.
• Select Reset.
• Tap Reset Network Settings.
• Enter your passcode and confirm the reset.

11. Consult Apple Support

If Air Pods continue to cut out despite trying previous solutions, it’s advisable to seek assistance from Apple Support. They can assist in troubleshooting the issue and assess whether your Air Pods require repair or replacement.

Air Pods – FAQs

Conclusion

Experiencing frequent disruptions in your Air Pods audio can be frustrating. Understanding the various factors that contribute to this issue is essential for a seamless listening experience. It can result from distance, obstructions, low battery, damaged components, firmware problems, or even interference from other wireless devices. While some quick fixes can address minor issues, persistent problems may require professional support from Apple. By identifying the root cause and taking the necessary steps, you can enjoy uninterrupted and high-quality sound through your Air Pods.