Are Only One of Your AirPods Working at a Time? Here’s How to Fix Them
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For the most part, AirPods just work. In fact, they’re specifically designed to connect and function seamlessly with other Apple products. But, as with any device, you may run into bugs or other issues that prevent AirPods from working properly.
As an example, some users report that only one AirPod will work at a single time. While both may be functional, only the left or right AirPod will receive or play audio at any one time.
This seems to be a fairly common issue among a range of users. But luckily, it’s also a fairly easy issue to fix.
How to Fix Just One AirPod Working at a Time
Before you try anything else, you may want to simply restart your iOS device first. That can (and does) fix a lot of routine problems without any additional effort.
If that doesn’t work, then try the steps listed below. They seem to be the trick in the majority of cases.
- On your iOS device, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the ( i ) icon next to your AirPods and then tap Forget This Device.
- Put your AirPods back in their carrying case and close the lid.
- Wait for around 15 seconds or so. Then reopen the carrying case lid.
- Press and hold the setup button on the back of the AirPods case until you see the indicator light flash. It should flash amber a couple times, and then flash white.
- Make sure your AirPods are close enough to the device you’d like to pair them to. Then, follow the steps that pop up on your iOS screen.
As an additional step, some users recommend that you reset the network settings on your iPhone as well. If your AirPods still aren’t working properly after forgetting and resetting them, you may want to try it.
- Open Settings .
- Tap General.
- Tap Reset.
- Tap Reset Network Settings.
If all else fails, there may be another problem or a hardware issue with your AirPods. We recommend contacting Apple Support or making a Genius Bar appointment and letting Apple staff check out your headphones.
- You can contact Apple Support directly here.
- Alternatively, you can talk to Apple Support via Twitter on their official page.
- Or, you can set up a Genius Bar appointment here.
