Why are my AirPods connected but the sound is coming from my phone?

AirPods connecting to your iPhone but the sound coming from the phone speaker instead is a common issue many users experience. There are several potential causes for why this happens:

  • Bluetooth connectivity problems between the AirPods and iPhone
  • Incorrect audio output settings on the iPhone directing sound to the phone speaker
  • Faulty or damaged AirPods not playing audio properly
  • Software bugs or conflicts with iOS, apps or device settings
  • Interference from other devices causing connectivity issues
  • Needing to reset and reconnect the AirPods to the iPhone

This article will explore the main reasons and solutions for AirPods showing as connected but the sound coming through the iPhone speaker instead.

Bluetooth Issues

One of the most common reasons AirPods may be connected but the sound is coming from your phone is Bluetooth connectivity problems between the AirPods and your phone (1). Bluetooth can sometimes encounter interference or connectivity issues that prevent proper pairing between devices (2). This could lead to situations where your AirPods show as connected in your Bluetooth settings but the audio path is not actually routing through them.

Potential Bluetooth problems that can cause this include:

  • Excessive Bluetooth interference in the area from other wireless devices
  • Outdated Bluetooth drivers/firmware on the iPhone or AirPods
  • iPhone Bluetooth antenna failure or malfunction
  • The AirPods case is out of battery, preventing pairing
  • Your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings need to be reset and repaired with the AirPods

Checking for potential sources of interference, updating your iPhone and AirPods software, and resetting Bluetooth connections can help resolve connectivity issues. If problems persist, the iPhone or AirPods hardware related to Bluetooth may need servicing.

Volume Settings

One common reason the sound may come from your iPhone instead of your AirPods is if the volume controls are set differently on each device. The volume buttons on your iPhone control the overall system volume, while the AirPods have independent volume controls.

To adjust the volume of your AirPods, you can say “Hey Siri, turn up/down the volume” or use the volume slider in Control Center when your AirPods are connected (source). For AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, you can also press and hold the force sensor/Digital Crown to access volume controls.

If the volume on your iPhone is turned up but the volume on your AirPods is lower, the sound will keep playing from your iPhone speakers. Check that both the system volume and your AirPods volume are set to an audible level if you want the audio to come from your AirPods.

Defective AirPods

One potential cause of connected AirPods with sound coming from the iPhone could be hardware defects with the AirPods themselves. Apple has acknowledged issues with some AirPod Pro models manufactured before October 2020 that can cause crackling or static sounds. They launched a service program to provide free repairs for affected AirPods Pro (see https://support.apple.com/airpods-pro-service-program-sound-issues).

Other common hardware issues that can impact AirPod functionality include buildup of earwax or debris blocking the speakers, damage to the speakers from exposure to liquids or drops, defective batteries, connection problems with the logic board, and microphone failures. It’s worth examining the AirPods closely under bright light to check for any visible defects, cracks, or blockages. Resetting the AirPods can help rule out software issues, but hardware damage will likely require repair or replacement from Apple or an authorized service provider.

If your AirPods are covered by Apple’s one-year limited warranty or you purchased AppleCare+, you may be able to get free repairs or replacements. Make sure to check the eligibility requirements. Out of warranty AirPod repairs can be expensive, so it may be worth comparing the cost to just purchasing a new set of AirPods.

iOS or App Conflicts

Sometimes connectivity issues between AirPods and iPhones can arise due to bugs or conflicts between iOS, certain apps, and how AirPods interface with them. There are a few known issues that commonly lead to problems like sound only coming from the iPhone instead of the AirPods.

One bug causes the AirPods to disconnect from the iPhone when using certain apps like FaceTime or Zoom. Even though the AirPods may still show as connected in Bluetooth settings, the audio routing gets disrupted. Quitting the app and reselecting the AirPods as the audio output is a temporary fix. Apple has addressed this in newer iOS versions. [1]

Similarly, some third party apps don’t properly hand off audio to AirPods or retain device connection through the app. Checking for app updates or contacting the developer can help troubleshoot those kinds of issues. Make sure your iPhone and apps are updated to the latest iOS versions for maximum compatibility.

In some cases, the iPhone itself may not properly route audio to the AirPods after launching certain apps, even though Bluetooth still shows them as connected. You may need to manually switch the audio output back to the AirPods in Control Center or the app itself. Toggling Bluetooth off and on can also force your iPhone to connect to the AirPods again.

Interference

Wireless Bluetooth connections like AirPods rely on radio signals to transmit audio between devices. But other devices that emit radio signals can potentially cause interference and disrupt the connection between your AirPods and iPhone (source).

Common sources of interference include:

  • Nearby Bluetooth devices trying to connect to your AirPods or iPhone, such as headphones, speakers, etc.
  • Wireless routers and networks
  • Microwave ovens
  • Baby monitors
  • Wireless security systems
  • Cordless phones

This interference can manifest as static, cutting in and out, reduced audio quality, or even complete connection drops. Being in close proximity to these devices while using AirPods can increase the likelihood of interference. Moving away from potential sources can help. You can also try turning off other nearby wireless devices to see if that improves the connection (source).

Incorrect Audio Output

One common reason your AirPods may be connected but the audio is coming from your iPhone speaker is if the default audio output is set to the phone instead of the AirPods. On iOS, you can change the audio output from Control Center to switch between your iPhone speaker and AirPods.

To change the audio output from your AirPods to your iPhone speaker, open Control Center by swiping down from the top right corner on iPhone models with a home button, or by swiping down from the top right corner on iPhone X and later models. Hold down on the audio card in the upper-right corner to bring up the audio output options. Tap on the icon to toggle between your iPhone and AirPods.

You can also change the audio output in the Settings app under Bluetooth. Find your AirPods in the list of devices and tap the “i” icon next to them. Toggle “Automatic” on or off to choose whether your AirPods automatically switch to become the audio output when connected.

If your AirPods still don’t switch to become the audio output, try unpairing your AirPods and repairing them with your iPhone to reset the connection. Check for software updates, restart your iPhone and AirPods, and make sure no other apps are interfering with the audio output.

See: Switch your AirPods to another device

Reset and Repair

If your AirPods won’t connect to your iPhone or the audio is coming from the phone instead, try resetting and repairing them to re-establish the Bluetooth connection:

  1. Open the AirPods case and press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for 15-20 seconds until the status light flashes amber then white. This will reset and unpair the AirPods. [1]
  2. With the AirPods in the case, open the Settings app on your iPhone and go to Bluetooth. Select your AirPods from the list of devices.
  3. Follow the onscreen prompts to pair and connect your AirPods to your iPhone. Tap “Connect” when prompted.
  4. Put the AirPods in your ears and check if the audio issue is resolved. The sound should now come from the AirPods.
  5. If the issue persists, you can forget the device and re-pair again. Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “i” icon next to your AirPods and select “Forget This Device.” Then go through the pairing process again.

Resetting the AirPods will clear any glitches and allow you to re-establish a strong Bluetooth connection with your iPhone. Make sure both devices are updated to the latest firmware for best connectivity. Contact Apple Support if the issue continues after trying these troubleshooting steps. [2]

Contact Apple Support

If you are still experiencing issues with your AirPods after trying the troubleshooting steps, it’s best to contact Apple Support directly for further assistance. Apple provides several options for contacting support regarding AirPods hardware issues:

Call Apple Support: You can call 1-800-APL-CARE (800-275-2273) in the US or find your country’s support number here. Explain the issue you’re experiencing with your AirPods to the representative.

Visit the Genius Bar: Make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store where a technician can inspect your AirPods in person and potentially replace them if covered under warranty. Find an Apple Store near you.

Mail-in repair/replacement: You can mail your AirPods to Apple for inspection, troubleshooting or replacement by requesting a repair through Apple Support. They’ll provide a prepaid shipping box.

Contact options like live chat or email may also be available in your country by visiting Apple AirPods Support.

Providing the serial number, purchase date, and details of the issue can help Apple Support resolve problems faster. Be ready to answer questions and follow troubleshooting tips from the representative to diagnose and address AirPods hardware problems.

Summary

If your AirPods are connected to your iPhone but the sound is coming from the phone speaker instead, there are several potential causes and solutions to try:

First, check your Bluetooth connections and volume settings to make sure everything is set up properly. Try manually disconnecting and reconnecting your AirPods or toggling Bluetooth off and on. Also check the volume levels on your iPhone and in any apps you’re using to play audio.

If that doesn’t work, your AirPods themselves may have an issue, like a defective speaker or microphone. Reset your AirPods and check for software updates. If the problem persists, contact Apple Support for troubleshooting or potential replacement under warranty.

Interference from other devices and incorrect audio output settings can also cause this issue. Try changing locations or turning off other Bluetooth devices. Double check your sound output selection in Settings > Bluetooth and within individual apps.

As a last resort, reset your iPhone’s network settings or restore your device to factory settings. This will erase any problematic configurations that could be disrupting the connection.

With some careful troubleshooting and testing, you should be able to resolve any AirPods connectivity issues and resume enjoying music, calls, and more. Contact Apple for additional support if needed.

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