Discover how to troubleshoot and fix your AirPod when one side stops working.
Ever tried serenading yourself with your favorite tune only to realize one of your AirPods has decided to take a nap? Annoying, right? Fear not, tech troubadour! Dive into this quick guide to conquer your one-eared woes as we unravel ways to check your Bluetooth connection, perform some dental-level cleaning, reset those rebellious AirPods, update your software, and even test on another device. Follow along, and we’ll have your jams back in stereo faster than you can say “pairing mode!”
Key takeaways:
- Check Bluetooth connection: Ensure proximity, toggle Bluetooth, un-pair and re-pair, check audio output, restart device.
- Clean AirPod: Use cloth, brush for speaker mesh, clean charging case, check charging contacts.
- Reset AirPods: Forget in Bluetooth settings, hold setup button, re-pair for fresh start.
- Update software: Connect AirPods, check for updates on device and AirPods.
- Test on another device: Pair with friend’s device to troubleshoot.
Check Bluetooth Connection

First, make sure your AirPods are within range of your device. No one expects them to perform miracles from two floors away.
Next, a quick toggle of the Bluetooth switch can often do wonders. Turn it off, wait a few seconds—long enough to sip your coffee—then turn it back on.
Still no luck? Try un-pairing and re-pairing your AirPods from your device. It’s a bit like breaking up to make up, but without the drama.
Also, don’t forget to double-check if your AirPods are selected as the audio output source. Sometimes your device plays hard-to-get and opts for internal speakers instead.
Lastly, restarting your device might just be the magic trick. We all need a reboot now and then, right?
Clean the AirPod and Charging Case
You’d be amazed at the amount of pocket lint and random debris that can build up in those tiny little speakers. Grime happens to the best of us.
First, grab a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. No, don’t use your shirt, unless you want more lint. Gently wipe the surface of your AirPod.
Next, take a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush to the speaker mesh. Be patient, be gentle, and fight the urge to use that pen cap as a pick.
Now for the charging case. Use the same cloth and maybe a cotton swab for the stubborn spots. Keep it dry! Liquids and electronics mix as well as cats and dogs.
Finally, make sure none of that junk is lingering in the charging contacts. A nifty trick is slightly twisting a dry toothbrush inside the case to whisk away any invisible dust.
Voilà! Now, your AirPod and its home are sparkling clean and should be ready to rock again. If not, hey, at least they look fabulous.
Reset AirPods
Sometimes, hitting the reset button brings surprising results. It’s like a magical reboot. This essentially gives your AirPods a fresh start.
Disconnect your AirPods from any device by forgetting them in the Bluetooth settings. Super easy, right?
Next, hold down the setup button on the back of the charging case. Not a tiny game of finger Twister, just a matter of holding it for about 15 seconds until the LED light flashes amber, then white.
Re-pair your AirPods with your device by bringing the case close and opening the lid. Watch the reconnection as if you’re witnessing a movie climax.
By initiating this reset, you’ve restored their factory settings, and often, solved any pesky problems.
Give it a whirl. Your soundtrack might just return to stereo perfection.
Update Software
Often, the cause of an AirPod acting like a diva can be outdated software. Keeping things up-to-date is crucial in the tech world, just like rotating your tires or watering your plants.
First, connect your AirPods to your device.
Then, check if there’s a software update available for your iPhone or iPad. Head to Settings, then General, and finally, Software Update.
Sometimes your AirPods themselves need a little tech sprinkle. Ensure both the AirPods and their case have enough charge and then reconnect them to your device. This should prompt any pending firmware updates.
Remember, new updates come with bug fixes and could be the magic wand for your one-sided music conundrum. No one likes to be left behind—inclusive of AirPods!
Test On Another Device
Trying your AirPods on another device is like asking a second opinion—sometimes it’s just the Bluetooth equivalent of “Have you tried turning it off and on again?”
Here’s what you do:
First, grab a friend’s phone or tablet. They’ll love being part of your tech mystery.
Pair your AirPods with this new device. If both work fine, guess what? Your first device might be the culprit. (Sneaky, right?)
If the problem persists, at least now you can rule out your original device. Onward to the next fix with confidence!
And hey, it’s a great excuse to browse someone else’s playlist.