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Likely fix

Fix: Bluetooth audio not working

Bluetooth audio usually fails when the device is connected to the wrong output, media audio is disabled, the headphones are connected somewhere else, or the Bluetooth profile is stuck.

Quick answer

Disconnect and reconnect Bluetooth, check media audio/output settings, forget the device, then pair it again.

Important warning

A Bluetooth device can be connected for calls but not media, which makes music or videos silent.

Try this

  1. 1 Make sure the Bluetooth device is charged and turned on.
  2. 2 Disconnect and reconnect the Bluetooth device.
  3. 3 Check that the Bluetooth device is selected as audio output.
  4. 4 Raise volume on both devices.
  5. 5 Check whether media audio is enabled for that Bluetooth device.
  6. 6 Turn Bluetooth off and on.
  7. 7 Forget the Bluetooth device and pair it again.
  8. 8 Restart both devices.

Common causes

Wrong output selected.

Bluetooth device connected to another phone or laptop.

Media audio disabled.

Volume muted on one device.

Bluetooth profile is stuck.

Device needs to be paired again.

What to check next

  • Check the selected audio output.
  • Check whether media audio is enabled.
  • Check whether the Bluetooth device connects to another device automatically.
  • Check volume on both devices.
  • Check whether forgetting and pairing again fixes it.

FAQ

Why is Bluetooth connected but audio is not working?

The wrong output may be selected, media audio may be disabled, volume may be muted, or the Bluetooth profile may be stuck.

Why do calls work but music does not?

Calls and media use different Bluetooth profiles. Media audio may be disabled or not connected.

Should I forget and pair the Bluetooth device again?

Yes. If reconnecting does not work, forgetting and pairing again is one of the most reliable fixes.

Related fixes

Fix: Sound only works on one side

Sound only on one side is usually caused by audio balance settings, a loose headphone plug, dirty jack, damaged cable, one earbud not pairing, or a failing speaker.

Fix: No sound on Windows

No sound on Windows is usually caused by mute, the wrong output device, app volume settings, Bluetooth or HDMI taking over audio, or an audio driver problem.

Fix: No sound on Mac

No sound on Mac is usually caused by mute, the wrong output device, Bluetooth headphones, HDMI or AirPlay output, app settings, or a temporary audio service problem.

Fix: No sound on iPhone or iPad

No sound on iPhone or iPad is usually caused by silent mode, low volume, Focus settings, Bluetooth, AirPlay, app volume, or the speaker being blocked or dirty.

Fix: No sound on Android

No sound on Android is usually caused by separate volume sliders, Do Not Disturb, Bluetooth output, app settings, muted media, or blocked speaker grilles.

Fix: One app has no sound

If only one app has no sound, the app may be muted, using the wrong output, stuck, blocked by permissions, or affected by its own audio settings.