Some AirPods Pro owners have run into issues with their earbuds, and there have been numerous complaints about crackling or popping noises that occur during movement when the AirPods Pro are worn. This guide outlines the problem and provides troubleshooting steps recommended by Apple as a potential fix.
Some AirPods Pro users have complained about rattling, crackling, or static-like noises when Active Noise Cancellation or Transparency Mode are engaged. This is primarily a problem impacting the original AirPods Pro, but there have been similar complaints about other models.
The noise seems to appear over time, it appears to be a hardware issue as it does not happen when ANC and Transparency Mode are turned off.
The sound happens when something causes the earbud to move or vibrate, such as when a person walks, runs, taps the affected earbud with a finger, turns their head, nods, or plays music with a lot of bass. A MacRumors reader describes what it sounds like:
It's often described like it sounds like something has come loose inside the APP earbud. Many people seem to think it's actually a problem with the external microphone: it appears to be picking up tiny vibrations as sound, and then attempting to "cancel" (in Noise Cancellation mode) or amplify (in Transparency mode) these sounds (which don't actually exist), causing the APP to play the rattling-style noise. Whether this is the actual cause or not I don't know.
While there has been speculation that it's a hardware issue, Apple suggests the problem is due to wireless interference or a specific app, and the company recommends people who hear crackling sounds follow these steps:
- Make sure the latest software is installed on a connected iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac.
- Check that the connected device is nearby and there's no wireless interference or obstructions between you and the device.
- Listen to audio from a different app to see if the app causes the issue.
If that doesn't work, Apple recommends contacting Apple Support for help because there is a repair program for the problem.
AirPods Pro Service Program
Apple launched a repair program for the original AirPods Pro to fix an issue that causes some models to exhibit sound issues such as crackling or static or faulty Active Noise Cancellation.
Affected models have static or crackling sounds that increase in loud environments such as with movement or when talking on the phone, or Active Noise Cancellation that fails to work properly with a loss of bass, increased background sound, or a street or airplane noise.
The faulty AirPods Pro models were manufactured before October 2020, and those who are experiencing issues can take the AirPods Pro to Apple for service at no charge. AirPods Pro will be examined prior to service to verify that they're eligible for the program. AirPods manufactured after October 2020 should not exhibit this issue, though some users have reported having issues with AirPods manufactured later as well.
The program does not cover AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods Pro 3.
Lawsuit
Apple customers filed a class action lawsuit against Apple in November 2024 for continuing to sell AirPods Pro knowing there was a defect causing the crackling sound. Apple was accused of deceiving customers and false advertising, with the lawsuit seeking damages.
Guide Feedback
Have a question about Apple's advice for these issues, know of a potential solution we left out, or want to offer feedback? Send us an email here.
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