Level 1 (4 points)

iPad Pro speakers crackle loudly during calls

I have an iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th gen) running iPadOS 26.7. Within the last week or two, following an iPadOS update, it has developed an audio fault where the internal speakers suddenly produce very loud static/crackling.

The noise appears to come specifically from the left/top-left speaker when the iPad is docked in the Apple keyboard case. I have removed the case and tested the iPad separately, and the fault still occurs.

It happens across FaceTime, Teams and Google Meet, either on connection or during a call, and can last 10–20 seconds. The static can occur suddenly at an extremely high volume. Normal audio such as YouTube and system tones is unaffected. All Teams control panel/audio settings are set to their standard/normal configuration. All relevant apps are up to date.

The iPad hasn’t been dropped or damaged, there is no obvious dust or debris blocking the speakers, and I haven’t changed any audio or accessibility settings from their standard/default configuration. I’ve also performed a hard reset, but the issue persists. Apple diagnostics have been run and returned no faults.

Has anyone else experienced the same or a similar issue?

Posted on Sep 16, 2026 8:59 AM

2 replies

LotusPilot

Level 10 (334,506 points)

Sep 16, 2026 9:04 AM in response to BerkshireAppleUser

As described, the individual speaker or driver circuit may have "blown". If so, this can only be resolved by repair.

For practical purposes, in lieu of repairing and returning your own iPad, Apple usually exchange a qualifying iPad for a renewed/refurbished iPad of the same model and specification. The cost of the exchange is the same as would otherwise be charged for repair. Unless you have benefit of an active AppleCare plan, an out-of-warranty repair while expensive will be somewhat less than the cost of a replacement iPad.

As for out-of-warranty repair costs, Apple offers a fixed-price price repair. You can verify eligibility and cost for your region/country here:

iPad Repair & Service - Apple Support

If you have an active AppleCare+ plan, the cost of repair is reduced to a small excess/deductible fee.

Your best option may be to visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

aashmansingh_4

Level 2 (338 points)

Sep 16, 2026 6:18 PM in response to BerkshireAppleUser

This is a hardware issue because due to long term heavy use, the hardware components tend to act up unexpectedly, sometimes. My iPad 10th Gen has not acted up anytime since 3 years. You need to reap the benefit if you have an active AppleCare+ Warrantly plan or just get a replacement. I can just help with software issues and advise you effectively, sometimes, with hardware or chip issues.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256358279