What to do if your AirPods Pro make crackling or static sounds

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AirPods-Pro-crackle-GIF
3 potential fixes recommended by Apple.
GIF: Killian Bell/Cult of Mac

Apple has finally acknowledged that some AirPods Pro units can produce “cracking or static sounds” while in use. If you’re experiencing these issues, there are some things you can try that might help eliminate them.

These are the steps Apple says you should take.

Apple on Tuesday rolled out a new AirPods Pro firmware update that should eliminate some of the niggles users have been suffering. It seems, however, that AirPods Pro may still emit strange sounds from time to time.

A new Apple Support document outlines some of the things that could fix this problem before contacting Apple.

AirPods Pro strange audio fixes

  1. Make sure that all devices connected to AirPods Pro — including iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac — are running the latest software updates.
  2. Ensure that your connected device is nearby while using AirPods Pro, and that there no interference or obstructions from other objects.
  3. Listen to audio in a different app to determine if this is actually an AirPods Pro issue, or a problem with certain software in particular.

“If you still experience sound quality issues — or if the issues increase in loud environments, with exercise, or while talking on the phone — contact Apple Support,” Apple says.

Clean your AirPods

We also recommend that you keep your AirPods Pro clean. Although a bit of grime is unlikely to cause crackling or static sounds, it can impact your audio in other ways, like reducing sound volume.

Our handy AirPods cleaning guide includes some great tips on safely removing dirt and bacteria from your buds without breaking them.

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