AirPods Not Working on Zoom Windows? Here’s How to Fix It

Experiencing the frustration of your AirPods not playing nice with Zoom on your Windows computer? You’re not alone! Many users encounter this issue, but thankfully, there are several solutions you can try. This comprehensive guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps to get your AirPods working seamlessly with Zoom on Windows.

Why Aren’t My AirPods Working with Zoom on Windows?

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand potential causes:

  • Bluetooth Connectivity Issues: A weak or unstable Bluetooth connection can prevent AirPods from functioning correctly.
  • Incorrect Audio Settings in Zoom: Zoom might not be configured to use your AirPods as the default audio device.
  • Outdated Drivers: Outdated Bluetooth or audio drivers can lead to compatibility problems.
  • AirPods Firmware Issues: Occasionally, outdated firmware on your AirPods themselves can cause conflicts.
  • Conflicting Applications: Other applications using your microphone or audio output might interfere with Zoom.
  • Windows Sound Settings: Incorrect default playback or recording devices in Windows can cause issues.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix AirPods on Zoom (Windows)

Here’s a systematic approach to resolve the issue:

1. Verify Bluetooth Connection

  • Check Bluetooth Status: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your Windows computer. Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and toggle Bluetooth to the ‘On’ position.
  • Reconnect AirPods: Disconnect and reconnect your AirPods. Right-click the Bluetooth icon in the system tray, select your AirPods, and click ‘Remove device’. Then, put your AirPods in the charging case, open the lid, and press the button on the back until the status light flashes white. Your AirPods should then reappear in the Bluetooth list – select them and click ‘Pair’.
  • Proximity: Make sure your AirPods are within a reasonable range (ideally, a few feet) of your computer.

2. Configure Audio Settings in Zoom

  • Access Zoom Settings: Open the Zoom application and click on your profile picture in the top right corner. Select ‘Settings’.
  • Audio Tab: Navigate to the ‘Audio’ tab.
  • Speaker and Microphone: In the ‘Speaker’ dropdown menu, select your AirPods. Similarly, in the ‘Microphone’ dropdown menu, choose your AirPods.
  • Test Audio: Click ‘Test Speaker’ and ‘Test Mic’ to confirm audio is working correctly. Adjust volume levels as needed.
  • Automatically adjust microphone volume: Uncheck this box to manually control your microphone volume. This can prevent Zoom from lowering the volume too much automatically.

3. Check Windows Sound Settings

  • Open Sound Settings: Right-click the speaker icon in the system tray and select ‘Open Sound settings’.
  • Output: In the ‘Output’ section, select your AirPods as the default device. If you don’t see them, click ‘Manage sound devices’ and ensure your AirPods are enabled and not disabled.
  • Input: In the ‘Input’ section, select your AirPods as the default device for your microphone. Again, check ‘Manage sound devices’ if necessary.
  • App volume and device preferences: Scroll to the bottom of the Sound Settings page and select ‘App volume and device preferences’. Ensure that Zoom is using the AirPods for both output and input.

4. Update Drivers

  • Device Manager: Press the Windows key + X and select ‘Device Manager’.
  • Bluetooth: Expand the ‘Bluetooth’ section. Right-click on your Bluetooth adapter and select ‘Update driver’. Choose ‘Search automatically for drivers’.
  • Audio Inputs and Outputs: Expand ‘Audio inputs and outputs’. Right-click on your AirPods and select ‘Update driver’. Choose ‘Search automatically for drivers’.
  • Restart: After updating drivers, restart your computer.

5. Update AirPods Firmware

While you can’t directly update AirPods firmware through Windows, the update typically happens automatically when your AirPods are connected to an iOS device (iPhone or iPad) with a stable internet connection. Ensure your AirPods are paired with your iOS device, connected to Wi-Fi, and charging. The update will usually occur in the background.

6. Close Conflicting Applications

Close any other applications that might be using your microphone or audio output. These could include other communication apps (like Skype or Discord), audio recording software, or video editing programs.

7. Restart Your Computer and Zoom

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. Close Zoom completely and restart your computer. Then, relaunch Zoom and check if the issue is resolved.

8. Run the Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can automatically diagnose and fix common problems.

  • Access Troubleshooters: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
  • Playing Audio and Recording Audio: Run both the ‘Playing Audio’ and ‘Recording Audio’ troubleshooters.

9. Reset AirPods

As a last resort, you can try resetting your AirPods.

  • Reset Procedure: Place your AirPods in the charging case, close the lid, and wait 30 seconds. Open the lid, and press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber, then white. This indicates your AirPods have been reset.
  • Re-Pair: Re-pair your AirPods with your computer.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most issues causing your AirPods to not work with Zoom on Windows. If the problem persists after trying all these solutions, consider contacting Apple Support or Zoom support for further assistance.