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Microphone does not work | Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)
Select how the device is connected:
Using a Bluetooth connection
Be sure the phone is not muted.
Check the phone to see if the mute functionality has been enabled. The phone and the headset each have the ability to mute a call. Check for a visual representation of the muting aspect for the phone. For more information, see Muting your product.
Check if a voice assistant responds to a voice request.
If you have set up the Google Assistant or Alexa, ask it a question (i.e. "What time is it?") to see if it detects your voice. If it can, the microphone is picking up sound.
Keep your product within 33 feet (10 meters) of your personal device.
Distance and obstacles like walls, doors, or other electronics can weaken the Bluetooth signal. If you're having trouble, try moving your personal device and product closer together or relocating other devices that may cause interference.
Be sure the headphones are connected to a Bluetooth device using the headset profile (HSP).
If the headphones are only connected to a device using the Bluetooth stereo audio profile (A2DP), microphone functionality will not be enabled. This will prevent the user from hearing themselves.
In the settings menu of the connected device, be sure the headset profile is enabled. Once enabled, unpairing, re-pairing and reconnecting the headphones to the device may be needed.
In the settings menu of the connected device, be sure the headset profile is enabled. Once enabled, unpairing, re-pairing and reconnecting the headphones to the device may be needed.
If more than one device is connected to the headphones, try turning off the other device.
The Bluetooth headset profile (HSP) may be enabled in both devices but one device may not allow the other to operate properly for in-call audio.
Reboot the connected device.
Electronics might need to be reset from time-to-time—much like rebooting a computer. Power off the device, then power it back on and try again.
Reset your product.
Much like rebooting a smartphone, your product might need to be reset on occasion to correct minor issues. For more information, see Resetting your product.
Try connecting a different Bluetooth device.
If your Bose product can connect to another device, Bluetooth functionality is working. In cases like this, the issue could be with the first device or its settings.
Check for and install any available product updates.
On a computer, visit btu.bose.com and follow the instructions to ensure your product has the latest features and enhancements. See Checking the software or firmware version and Updating the software or firmware of your product.
Using a wired USB-C connection
Ensure Your Software Is Using the Correct Input Device
In the audio settings of your voice chat application (such as Microsoft Teams, Discord, Zoom, or similar), verify that the Input Device is set to "Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) (USB)."
Selecting the correct input device ensures that your microphone audio is captured from your Bose headphones rather than another connected microphone or your computer’s built-in microphone.
Note: The device name may appear differently depending on how it was configured in the Bose app. Use the custom device name you selected in the app, if applicable.
Disconnect and Reconnect the USB-C Cable
On the connected device, disconnect the USB-C cable from your headset, then reconnect it firmly. This helps ensure the cable is fully seated and that the connection is secure.
A loose or partially connected USB-C cable can cause audio issues, microphone problems, or intermittent headset detection.
Note: After reconnecting the cable, verify that the headset is recognized by your device and that audio is functioning normally.
Important: If you hear crackling, popping, or intermittent audio when gently moving the USB-C connector, there may be debris, dust, or damage affecting the connection. Inspect both the USB-C port and connector for contamination and clean them if necessary before reconnecting the cable.
Check the condition of the USB cable.
Inspect the USB cable for any signs of damage, including cuts, fraying, bent connectors, exposed wires, or excessive wear.
Damage to the cable can cause charging issues, audio interruptions, connectivity problems, or prevent the headset from being detected by your device.
If the USB plug or any part of the cable is damaged, replace the USB cable and test the connection again.
Note: If available, try a different compatible USB cable to determine whether the cable is causing the issue.
Remove Any Case or Protective Sleeve
If the connected device is in a case, cover, or protective sleeve, remove it and then reconnect the USB cable.
Some cases can prevent the USB connector from fully seating in the device's USB port, resulting in a loose or incomplete connection. This can cause audio or device detection issues.
After removing the case, reconnect the USB cable and ensure it is inserted completely and securely.
Note: If the connection works correctly after removing the case, consider using a case that provides sufficient clearance for the USB connector.
Try connecting the headset to a different device.
If the headset works with one device but not another (with or without an adapter), there may be an issue with that particular device.
