Nothing ruins a good song or an engaging podcast like AirPods randomly pausing.
It’s like someone’s playing a cruel joke, just as you get into the groove, silence. I’ve been there, frustrated, tapping my earbuds like they owe me an explanation.
However, after digging into this issue, I found several ways to stop AirPods from hijacking the listening experience.
A few things could be causing the interruptions. It could be sensors acting up, Bluetooth glitches, or even interference from other devices.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as a setting that needs tweaking. Before throwing them in frustration, let’s check the common culprits.
1. Check If They’re Clean
AirPods use sensors to detect when they’re in your ears. If dirt or earwax covers the sensors, they might think they’ve been removed, pausing the playback.
- Grab a soft, dry cloth and gently clean the sensors.
- Use a dry cotton swab to clear any debris from the mesh.
2. Turn Off Automatic Ear Detection
This feature is supposed to pause music when AirPods are removed, but it can misfire. If playback keeps stopping, it’s worth turning it off.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the i next to your AirPods
- Toggle Off “Automatic Ear Detection”
Test if the interruptions stop. If so, the issue might be the sensors.
3. Make Sure They Have Enough Battery
Low battery levels can cause weird behaviors. If AirPods keep pausing, check the battery level:
- Open the case near an iPhone
- Check the battery percentage on the pop-up screen
4. Turn Bluetooth Off and On
A quick reset can refresh the connection:
- Toggle Bluetooth off in Settings
- Wait a few seconds
- Turn it back on
Then, pop the AirPods back in and see if playback works smoothly.
5. Forget and Reconnect AirPods
If Bluetooth glitches keep interfering, resetting the connection might help:
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the i next to your AirPods
- Select Forget This Device
- Put them back in the case, close the lid, and wait 30 seconds
- Open the lid and reconnect them to the iPhone
This refreshes the pairing and can resolve stubborn issues.
6. Update iOS and AirPods Firmware
- For iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- For AirPods: Ensure they’re in the case and connected to the iPhone. Firmware updates happen automatically, but checking that they’re updated is a good idea.
Running outdated software? That might be why the playback keeps cutting out.
7. Check for Bluetooth Interference
Other devices using Bluetooth—like smartwatches, other phones, or even microwaves—can mess with connections. If interruptions happen in a specific location, interference could be the reason.
- Try moving away from crowded Bluetooth zones
- Turn off nearby Bluetooth devices one by one to see if one of them is causing trouble
8. Switch the Audio Source
Using Spotify? Apple Music? YouTube? Try a different app. If playback pauses only in one app, that app might be the problem.
- Close and restart the app
- Check if an update is available
- Clear the app’s cache if possible
Sometimes, the issue has nothing to do with AirPods but with how a particular app handles audio.
9. Reset AirPods to Factory Settings
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A fresh start can clear up any hidden software issues. Here’s how:
- Put them in the case and leave the lid open
- Hold the setup button on the back of the case for 15 seconds until the light flashes amber
- Reconnect them to the iPhone
This erases any old settings and forces them to act like new ones.
10. Check for Hardware Issues
If none of the fixes work, one of the AirPods could be faulty. Try using just one at a time:
- Put one in the case and use the other
- Swap and test the other one alone
If one keeps pausing while the other works fine, it might be time for a replacement.
When to Contact Apple Support
Get more out of your AirPods.
Check out these tips to learn how to share audio, have Siri announce your notifications, and more. pic.twitter.com/5ubm8V8cGa
— Apple Support (@AppleSupport) April 28, 2024
Tried everything? Still stuck? It might be a hardware defect. If AirPods are under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, getting them checked out at an Apple Store is a good idea.
- Visit Apple’s support page
- Schedule an appointment at the Genius Bar
- If still under warranty, Apple might replace them for free
No More Interruptions!
Now that the mystery is solved, uninterrupted listening should be back on track. From sensor cleaning to software resets, fixing AirPods doesn’t have to be a headache.
If one trick doesn’t work, another will. Music, podcasts, and calls should flow smoothly again without annoying stops.
Got a tip that worked? Drop it in the comments! Someone else might find it helpful. Happy listening!