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FingerPro's avatar
FingerPro
Copper Contributor
Mar 05, 2026

Workaround: Apple Airpods Pro 3 suddenly not working with Win 11 25H2

Been using APP3 since September 2025 with no issues. About 3-4 weeks ago there were new Intel BT audio drivers released. This has created a nightmare with the APP3. I have scoured the web and have tried everything. This included removing the APP3 BT device and cleaning the registry of any of it's presence. No joy.

The purpose of this post is that I've found a workaround that, at the least, allows me to use APP3 for output. The workaround still does not resolve the microphone issue, but I can get over that for now and just use the built-in mic array in my HP Elitebook.

The workaround:

  1. Find your APP3 in Device Manager under Sound, video, and game controllers.
  2. Right-click it and select Uninstall device.
  3. Click Uninstall to confirm.
  4. Reboot.

I perform these steps each morning before beginning work and Win 11 successfully directs sound output to the APP3.

Again, still not a fix for the mic issue. I welcome any advice about that. And, yes, I've ensured that APP3 is allowed and enabled for input/recording. If there's a setting to check/change/try, then I've done it.

3 Replies

  • eziodex's avatar
    eziodex
    Copper Contributor

    Facing the same issue. I managed to get the speakers working by increasing the volume using the control on the airbuds itself. It's not picking the speaker volume settings from teams during calls.

     

    No luck with the mic though.

  • Hassanui's avatar
    Hassanui
    Brass Contributor

    It seems like you've encountered a frustrating issue with your Apple AirPods Pro 3 (APP3) not working properly with your Windows 11 25H2 installation, particularly after the new Intel Bluetooth audio drivers were released. Despite trying various troubleshooting steps, you were unable to resolve the issue. However, you've discovered a workaround that allows you to use the APP3 for output, even though the microphone issue persists.

  • Luxix's avatar
    Luxix
    Brass Contributor

    Right-click the speaker icon → Open Sound settings → Input section → Choose your APP3 device as the default input device.