Your Bluetooth speaker shows as connected, but there’s complete silence when you try to play music or videos. This frustrating issue happens more often than you’d think, and it’s usually fixable in just a few minutes without any technical expertise.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Step 1: Check Your Volume Levels Everywhere
Start with the basics — volume controls exist in multiple places. First, turn up the volume on your Bluetooth speaker itself using the physical buttons. Many speakers have separate power and volume buttons, so make sure you’re pressing the right ones.
Next, check your phone or computer’s volume. On iPhones, use the side buttons while music is playing. Android users should check both media volume and Bluetooth volume in Settings > Sound. Windows users need to click the speaker icon in the system tray and verify the volume slider isn’t at zero.
Step 2: Disconnect and Reconnect Your Bluetooth
Sometimes the connection gets stuck in a weird state. Turn off Bluetooth completely on your device — not just disconnect from the speaker. On iOS, go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle it off. Android users can swipe down and tap the Bluetooth icon. Wait about 10 seconds, then turn Bluetooth back on.
Now reconnect to your speaker. If it doesn’t appear in the list, press and hold the Bluetooth button on your speaker until you hear a pairing sound or see a flashing light.
Step 3: Select the Correct Audio Output
Your device might be sending audio somewhere else. This step varies by device type:
For iPhone and iPad users, swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center. Press and hold the audio playback card, then tap the AirPlay icon. Make sure your Bluetooth speaker is selected, not your phone’s speaker or another device.
Windows 11 users should click the volume icon in the system tray, then click the arrow next to the volume slider. You’ll see all available audio devices — select your Bluetooth speaker from this list.
Mac users can click the Control Center icon in the menu bar, then click Sound. Choose your Bluetooth speaker from the output devices shown.
Step 4: Force Stop and Restart Your Media App
The app you’re using might be confused about where to send audio. Close it completely — not just minimize it. On iPhones with Face ID, swipe up from the bottom and hold, then swipe up on the app. Android users should use the recent apps button and swipe away the app.
Restart the app and try playing audio again. If you’re using Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Music, these apps sometimes need a fresh start to recognize audio device changes.
Step 5: Forget and Re-pair the Device
When gentle fixes don’t work, it’s time for a clean slate. Go to your Bluetooth settings and find your speaker in the paired devices list. On iOS, tap the “i” icon next to the speaker name and choose “Forget This Device.” Android users should tap the gear icon and select “Unpair” or “Forget.”
Now pair your speaker from scratch. Put the speaker in pairing mode (usually by holding the Bluetooth button for 3-5 seconds) and connect it as if it’s brand new.
Step 6: Reset Your Bluetooth Speaker
Most Bluetooth speakers have a factory reset option. This process varies by brand, but common methods include:
- Holding the power button for 10-15 seconds
- Pressing power and volume down simultaneously
- Using a small reset button (check for a tiny hole that needs a paperclip)
Check your speaker’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific reset instructions. Popular brands like JBL, Bose, Sony, and Ultimate Ears each have different reset procedures.
Likely Causes
Cause #1: Audio Codec Mismatch
Modern Bluetooth uses different codecs to compress and transmit audio. Sometimes your device and speaker support different codecs, causing compatibility issues. This is ideal for understanding why expensive speakers might have problems with older phones.
To check for this, look in your phone’s developer options (Android) or search for Bluetooth codec settings. Try switching to SBC, which is the most basic and widely compatible codec. This fix is best used in situations where you’ve recently updated your phone’s operating system.
Cause #2: Multiple Device Confusion
Many Bluetooth speakers can remember several devices and might be trying to play audio from the wrong one. Your speaker could be technically connected to your phone but waiting for audio from your laptop in another room.
Check if anyone else in your home has previously connected to this speaker. Turn off Bluetooth on all other devices, or move far enough away that they’re out of range. Some speakers have a button to cycle through connected devices — look for one labeled “source” or showing multiple dots.
Cause #3: Power Saving Mode Interference
Battery optimization features in 2025 are aggressive about saving power. Your phone might be cutting the Bluetooth connection to save battery, even though it shows as connected.
On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Special Access > Optimize Battery Usage. Find your music app and turn off battery optimization. iPhone users should check Settings > Battery and disable Low Power Mode temporarily. This solution is not recommended when your battery is critically low, but it often fixes mysterious audio dropouts.
When to Call Expert Help
If you’ve tried all these steps and still hear nothing, it might be time for professional help. Contact the speaker manufacturer’s support if your device is under warranty — most major brands offer at least a one-year warranty.
Signs you need expert assistance include:
- Physical damage to the speaker (water damage, dropped, etc.)
- The speaker won’t charge or turn on properly
- You hear crackling, popping, or distorted sound instead of silence
- The Bluetooth connection drops every few seconds
Don’t feel bad about calling support. Audio issues can be complex, and sometimes there’s a hardware problem that no amount of troubleshooting will fix.
Copy-Paste Prompt for AI Help
If you want additional troubleshooting help from ChatGPT or Perplexity, copy and paste this prompt:
“My Bluetooth speaker is paired and shows as connected, but no sound comes out. Device details: [Your phone model and OS version], Speaker: [Speaker brand and model]. I’ve already tried: adjusting volume on both devices, reconnecting Bluetooth, and restarting my phone. What are other specific troubleshooting steps for this exact combination of devices?”
Remember to replace the bracketed sections with your actual device information for the most accurate help.