- Wondering where the microphone is on your AirPods?
- Unsure if your AirPods’ microphone is properly connected?
- Also, check out our post on how to stop AirPods from falling out of your ears!
AirPods feature a healthy list of user-friendly functions and controls, making them one of the most popular listening devices.
Aside from providing a high-quality sound performance, AirPods also come with a built-in microphone that can be used to perform a variety of tasks.
You might wonder where the microphones are located on your AirPods or what they can be used for.
We’ve put together a brief guide to AirPod microphones to help you get familiar with this incredibly handy user feature.
We’ll also provide some essential tips for solving some microphone issues you may experience while using your AirPods.
P.S. you might also want to check out our guide to the best external mics for iPhones & iOS.
Where Is The Microphone On AirPods?
You might be surprised to learn that your AirPods carry four microphones per pair.
Most wireless earbud companies generally include a single or pair of microphones in their headset, which sets AirPods apart from most competitors.
A single AirPod has a microphone placed at the end of its stem. There is a second microphone located inside the earpiece of your AirPods.
What Do The Microphones Do?
The microphones inside your AirPod are each designed to perform specific tasks and functions.
The stem microphone is the primary microphone on your AirPods and is used to capture or record your voice during use.
The secondary microphone captures and monitors background noise during phone calls to help make your voice more present during phone calls.
This microphone can also help to reduce outside noise for a more intensive listening experience, although this only works for 3rd generation AirPods or later models.
AirPod microphones can be used to perform the following tasks:
- Phone calls, video, and conference calls.
- Record and send voice notes or personal memos.
- Make use of any voice command-related functions on your iPhone or iOS device.
- Record and capture your voice during video recordings or live streaming.
How To Fix Microphone Issues on Your AirPods
Some users may experience specific issues with their AirPod microphones during usage. Some people may experience a faulty or broken connection or low microphone levels during calls.
Others may simply have trouble syncing their microphones to their devices.
Some audio issues can be resolved by simply resetting and reconnecting your AirPods. A handful of factors can cause these issues, most of which can be solved by the users themselves from their home, office, or other workspaces.
We’ve listed some possible solutions for fixing AirPod microphone issues below:
- Place your AirPods in their charging case for a minute or so. Next, remove them from your list of Bluetooth devices on your iPhone.
- Take the AirPods out of their case and reconnect them to your iPhone by holding the Setup button on the charging case. Ensure your Bluetooth connection on your iPhone is active and ready to connect.
- You can also check which microphone your iPhone has set as its primary microphone. Open up the Settings menu on your iPhone and head to the Bluetooth section. Tap the info symbol next to your AirPods and enable the “Automatically Switch Airpods” option if this is not already active. Your phone will now automatically use the AirPod microphone whenever you connect them.
- Sometimes AirPods microphone faults can be traced back to your AirPods needing a firmware update. Force a firmware update by charging your AirPods next to your iPhone with a live internet connection for at least half an hour. Your iPhone will send you a notice if a firmware update has happened.
- Sometimes iPhones can experience performance or connection issues after long periods of frequent use. Try resetting your iPhone by turning it off and on to see if this resolves the microphone issues.
- Alternatively, you can always check that there isn’t some small form of dust, dirt, or earwax blocking your microphone. You can examine the microphones on your AirPods with an earbud or small needle to gently remove any possible elements blocking the microphone’s grille.
Final Thoughts
AirPod microphones allow users to perform essential handy tasks during use. AirPod microphones can capture your voice for clear, reliable phone communications and voice commands.
These microphones also improve listeners’ recording and listening experience by supporting their noise cancellation capabilities.
There is a small list of microphone-related issues you may experience while owning and using a pair of Apple AirPods. These issues may cause your microphone to work improperly or not at all.
However, you should be able to use one of the above-listed steps to fix almost any AirPod microphone not working easily.
Amber flashing light on your AirPods? Heres what it means (and what to do).
FAQs
Why Can’t People Hear Me On My AirPods?
You might be experiencing a performance or connection issue with your AirPods or iPhone.
You can try resetting and connecting either the AirPod or iPhone or try to perform a firmware update for your AirPods.
You can also check your iPhone Bluetooth menu to ensure that your AirPod microphone is connected correctly.
Do AirPods Have Only One Microphone?
No. many consumers are surprised to find that AirPods come with a total of 4 microphones per pair. A single AirPod has a microphone at its stem, with a second mic placed inside the inner ear’s housing.
Before you go, check out our post on what to do if One AirPod Is Not Charging (And How To Fix It)!