How to Fix AirPods Static Noise Quickly

Hearing static noise on your AirPods can be frustrating, especially during calls, music, or videos. This issue often points to minor glitches, connection problems, or dirt buildup, and sometimes manufacturing defects. Even Apple, in the case of AirPods Pro 1st Generation, acknowledged this issue and started a dedicated service program that now stands discontinued.

The good news is that you can fix it quickly at home, unless it’s due to a manufacturing defect. In this guide, you’ll learn simple and effective solutions to eliminate static noise and restore clear audio.

What is Static or Crackling Noise in AirPods?

Before starting off, let’s try to understand what that static noise is. Static noise in AirPods (also referred to as crackling noise by many) is often a sudden and sharp hissing sound you hear during an audio playback. This sound can be intermittent or constant, and it’s usually more noticeable in quieter audio.

Obviously, this interference can make it hard to focus on your music and leave you frustrated, especially if you’re trying to enjoy a relaxing moment or concentrate on a podcast.

FaceTime Like a Pro:

Get our exclusive Ultimate FaceTime Guide 📚 — absolutely FREE when you sign up for our newsletter below.

Why Do AirPods Make a Static or Crackling Noise?

Static or crackling noise in AirPods can stem from various issues, ranging from minor software glitches to environmental factors. Here are some of the most common causes.

• Interference: AirPods rely on Bluetooth, a wireless signal that can be disrupted by other devices. When too many signals overlap, you might hear static noise.
• Bluetooth connectivity issues: If your AirPods are too far from your device or something is blocking the signal, you might experience connectivity problems, which, in turn, can lead to static or crackling sounds.
• Software Glitches: Outdated firmware or bugs in iOS can cause various audio issues, including static noise.
• Hardware problems: Over time, wear and tear, dirt, or moisture can interfere with the AirPods’ internal components, causing them to make static or crackling noise.
• Environmental factors: High-noise areas or objects blocking the signal can contribute to poor audio quality.

How to Fix AirPods Static or Crackling Noise

Now that you understand the possible causes, let’s go through the steps to fix the static noise in your AirPods or AirPods Pro. Whether you’re dealing with AirPods Pro static noise in one ear or experiencing crackling across both earbuds, these solutions should help.

1. Check the Basics

Begin by ensuring your AirPods are within range of your device and have sufficient charge. Sometimes, the static noise can occur if the Bluetooth connection is weak or the battery is low. Similarly, keeping your AirPods charged and within proximity to your device can resolve many minor connectivity issues.

2. Put AirPods Back in the Case

If you still hear static noise, try placing your AirPods back into their charging case for about 10 seconds, then take them out and see if the issue persists. This will essentially reset the connection between your AirPods and your device, which can help clear up temporary glitches that might be causing the static.

3. Unpair and Re-pair the AirPods

Another easy fix is to unpair and then repair your AirPods. Doing so refreshes the Bluetooth connection and eliminates the static or crackling noise. Here’s how to do that.

1. On your iPhone, navigate to Settings → Bluetooth.
2. Tap the i icon next to your AirPods.
3. Tap on Forget This Device.
   
4. Once the AirPods have been unpaired, pair your AirPods again as if they were new.

This process helps to reestablish a clean connection, free from previous glitches.

4. Try a Different Audio Track or App

Sometimes, the problem might not be with your AirPods but with the audio source itself. Switching to a different song, podcast, or even another music app can help in this case. There are plenty of free and paid music streaming apps for iPhone that you can choose from. If the static disappears with a different track or app, the issue might be with the original audio file or application, not your AirPods.

5. Check the Stereo Balance Setting

If you’re experiencing static in only one ear, it could be due to an incorrect stereo balance setting on your device. Follow these steps to check if that’s the case and fix it:

1. Head over to Settings → Accessibility → Audio & Visual.
2. Scroll down to the Balance section.
3. Ensure that the audio balance is set in the middle.
   

6. Clean Your AirPods

Dirt and debris can accumulate on your AirPods, particularly around the speaker grills, leading to audio issues. Thankfully, cleaning your AirPods and charging case is super easy. You can use a soft, dry cloth or a cotton swab for most areas. Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned everything, check if the static noise issue has been resolved or not.

7. Update AirPods Firmware

AirPods receive firmware updates that can fix bugs and improve performance. In some cases, simply updating your AirPods to the latest firmware can fix most issues, including static or crackling noise.

8. Update iOS

Similar to the AirPods, an outdated iOS version can also sometimes contribute to static noise. Make sure that you’ve updated your iPhone to the latest iOS version. Keeping your device updated ensures it works smoothly with your AirPods, which can help resolve any static noise issues.

9. Reset Your AirPods

If none of the above solutions work, you can try resetting your AirPods. This will reset their settings to the default and let you reconnect them with your iPhone without any issues. The good news is that there’s no data to be lost here, so you can try this method without any worries.

Final Thoughts

Static noise can be annoying, but with these troubleshooting tips, you can often restore your AirPods to their original, crystal-clear sound quality.

If you’ve tried all these steps and are still experiencing static noise in your AirPods, it might be time to contact Apple Support. They can provide further assistance and, if necessary, repair or replace your AirPods.

Check out more on AirPods:

• How to fix AirPods microphone not working
• How to find AirPods case without AirPods inside