AirPods: Only one side works – here’s what you can do

If only one side of your AirPods is working, this is not necessarily due to a technical defect and can often be easily fixed.

Only one side of my AirPods is working – check the charge levels

Owners of Apple AirPods regularly complain that only one side works. With popular wireless headphones such as AirPods (1st to 4th generation) or AirPods Pro (1st to 3rd generation), this is usually an exception that can be easily remedied and is not related to a technical defect.

• First, make sure that the case is fully charged and recharge it if necessary. Also check that all updates for iOS or MacOS are installed.

• Then charge the AirPods in the case for at least 30 seconds.

• Now open the case near a paired iPhone or iPad to check the charge level of the case and AirPods.

• If one of your AirPods is not charging, this is at least a sign of a malfunction.

• You can check this on your iPhone or other Apple device to which the AirPods are connected.

• On the paired device, you can also use the “Where is?” app to see if a device is not working properly because it is not displayed.

• Try inserting both AirPods and playing an audio file.

• If the AirPod that you think is defective plays music, charge both devices for at least 30 seconds and test whether it works again.

• If one of the AirPods still does not work, you should reset the device or contact Apple Support.

How to update & reset your AirPods

If your AirPods only work on one side, you will need to reset the device and reconnect it. Also check the AirPods settings to see if the firmware is up to date and update it if necessary. Outdated firmware can cause problems.

• Charge the AirPods in the case for 30 seconds.

• Open the case and insert the AirPods.

• On your iPhone or iPad, select Settings, then Bluetooth (or select your AirPods via Settings).

• When your AirPods appear, tap the information icon (i) and ignore your headphones. This will disconnect them.

• Now search for your AirPods under new devices and pair them.

Cleaning AirPods properly

In rare cases, dirt can cause one earbud to be quieter than the other. Clean the AirPods carefully.

• Apple recommends using micellar water and a toothbrush to clean the grilles. Then dab the AirPods with a dry cloth.

• To clean the outside, use a damp cloth and then let the headphones dry for at least two hours before placing them in the charging case.

• Clean the inside of the charging case with a dry brush.

• Remove the ear tips from the AirPods Pro, clean them with a damp cloth, dry them, and then reattach them. Again, wait a few moments before storing the headphones.