How to Fix AirPods Pro Microphone Crackling

Identify the symptom and environment

Start by noting exactly when the crackling occurs. It may be present only during phone calls, while recording voice notes, or in video meeting apps. The crackling can sound like short pops, rustling, static, or intermittent dropouts. Check whether it happens constantly or only when you move, speak loudly, or use a specific app.

Record basic details before changing settings: the device connected to the AirPods Pro, the operating system version, the app being used, and whether the problem appears on both earbuds or only one. This helps separate a headset problem from an app or connection issue.

Isolate where the fault occurs

Test with a different app on the same device. If the crackling only appears in one calling app, the issue may be related to that app's input device selection or audio processing. Try a built-in voice recorder or another calling app and compare the result.

If possible, connect the AirPods Pro to a second device and make a short test recording or call. A clean result on another device suggests the problem is with the original device, its Bluetooth connection, or its audio settings. A similar crackling result on two devices points more toward the earbuds or the microphone openings themselves.

Check which microphone the app is using. Some desktop and mobile apps let you choose between the AirPods microphone and a built-in device microphone. An incorrectly selected input device can still produce usable audio, which can make the source of the noise unclear.

Try reversible fixes in order

Clean the microphone and speaker mesh carefully. The small openings on AirPods Pro can collect wax, lint, or moisture, which may affect both the microphone and the sensors. Use a dry cotton swab or a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not insert sharp objects or let liquid enter the openings.

Check the Bluetooth connection. Move closer to the connected device and avoid nearby wireless interference such as crowded Wi-Fi routers, USB hubs, or other active Bluetooth accessories. Temporary interference can cause audio artifacts that sound like microphone crackling.

Make sure the microphone path is clean in the operating system. On a computer, open the sound or audio settings and confirm that the AirPods are selected as the input device. Lower an unusually high input level if the crackling worsens with loud speech, then test again.

Check for background noise. The AirPods Pro microphone processing may react to loud or irregular sounds such as fans, wind, or rustling clothing. Move to a quieter space and keep hair, scarves, or collar fabric away from the earbuds during the test.

Re-pair the AirPods Pro. Remove them from the connected device's Bluetooth list, return them to the charging case, close the lid briefly, then pair them again. This does not erase personal files and can clear a stale connection state.

If available, update the connected device and any AirPods firmware through the official update mechanism. Version differences can change how the microphone behaves in calls, so note the current version before and after updating.

Confirm the result

Run the same test that first caused the symptom. Use the same app, position, and speaking volume. If the crackling is gone during a longer call or recording, the original issue is likely resolved for that environment.

If the noise is reduced but not gone, test in a quiet room with a low input level. A clearer result under controlled conditions can help you decide whether the remaining noise is environmental or a hardware problem.

If the problem remains

Keep a short record of what you tested: the connected device, operating system version, app, whether both earbuds were affected, and whether the crackling changed after cleaning, re-pairing, or changing the input level.

If the crackling continues across different devices and apps after official updates, contact the device manufacturer's support or an authorized repair provider. Continuing crackling is an observation, not proof of failed hardware, so provide the test details rather than assuming a specific internal fault.