To answer calls with wireless earbuds, you use a specific tap, press, or gesture on the earbud itself, and the exact method depends on your earbud model.
Answering calls on Apple AirPods
The gesture to answer a call on AirPods depends on which model you own. Apple documents device support for basic call answering as iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, with some 'make a call' examples limited to iPhone or iPad Wi‑Fi + Cellular models. Before using these controls, ensure your AirPods are connected to your device.
- AirPods 1 and AirPods 2: Double-tap either AirPod to answer or end a call.
- AirPods 3, AirPods 4, AirPods 5, and AirPods Pro: Press the stem once on either AirPod to answer a call.
- AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case: Nod your head up and down to answer a call, or shake your head side to side to decline it. These models also support head gestures to decline a call (shake side to side), not just answer.
- AirPods Max: Press the Digital Crown to answer a call.
You can also use your voice. With the "Announce Calls" feature, available on iOS 14.5 or later, Siri will announce the caller, and you can say "Answer" or "Decline" to respond without touching your earbuds.
Answering calls on Android earbuds
For Android earbuds like Google Pixel Buds and Samsung Galaxy Buds, the call-answering gesture is also a simple on-earbud control. Make sure your earbuds are connected to your device before a call comes in.
- Google Pixel Buds: Tap the right earbud to answer an incoming phone call.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds: Double-press the touchpad to answer or end a call. On supported Galaxy Buds models, pinch the blades to answer or end a call, and pinch and hold the blades to decline a call. Samsung documents pinch and hold the blades to decline a call on supported Galaxy Buds models.
Troubleshooting call controls
These call-answering gestures are built into the earbuds and do not require you to enable a separate setting in a phone menu or app. If the gesture does not work, first confirm that your earbuds are properly connected to your device. If they are not paired, you will need to complete the process for how to connect true wireless earbuds or pairing true wireless earbuds to your phone. If your earbuds are not turning on, follow the steps for how to turn on true wireless earbuds before attempting to pair them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I answer calls using only one earbud?
Yes, most wireless earbuds allow you to answer calls using either one or both earbuds. If you prefer to use a single earbud, you can keep the other in its charging case, and the call audio will route through the single earbud.
Can I use wireless earbuds for video calls?
Yes, wireless earbuds work with video calls on platforms like Zoom and FaceTime. The same call-answering gestures apply, and the earbuds will provide hands-free audio for the conversation.
Do all wireless earbuds have a microphone for calls?
Most modern wireless earbuds include built-in microphones for handling calls. However, it is best to check the specifications of a specific model to confirm it supports call functionality before purchasing.
