Repair Bose QuietComfort 35 II Microphone Failure Using Aukey 20000mAh Power Bank

Introduction

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones have earned a reputation for combining noise‑cancellation, comfort and a surprisingly clear microphone. Still, when the mic stops picking up sound, frustration can mount—especially during remote meetings or on the road. A common culprit is a power‑delivery issue: the headphone’s internal battery may be low, a software glitch may be interfering, or the mic circuitry may need a reset.

Using an external power source can help isolate the problem and, in many cases, restore function. The Aukey 20000 mAh power bank is a reliable, high‑capacity charger that can keep the headphones powered during troubleshooting. By following a structured, step‑by‑step repair plan, most users can get the mic back online without needing a visit to a service center.

Understanding the Microphone Failure

A mic failure on the QuietComfort 35 II usually presents in one of three ways:

• The mic is completely silent, regardless of the application or audio source.
• The mic works sporadically, only during certain calls or after a restart.
• The mic works in some apps (e.g., voice notes) but not others (e.g., Zoom).

In each scenario, the underlying issue often ties back to either power management or software configuration. Because the headphones are powered by a rechargeable lithium‑ion battery, any drop in voltage can temporarily disable the mic. Likewise, firmware bugs or corrupted audio drivers can misroute the mic signal.

Why Use a Power Bank?

An external power bank offers several advantages during troubleshooting:

1. Stable Power Delivery
   The Aukey bank can supply a consistent 5 V output, keeping the headphones from going into low‑power mode during the repair process.

2. Quick Charging
   The 20000 mAh capacity allows the headphones to be charged fully within 90 minutes, which is faster than some official chargers.

3. Isolation of Variables
   By powering the headphones externally, you can confirm whether a battery or charging port issue is causing the mic failure.

4. Convenience
   The compact design of the Aukey bank makes it easy to carry along during field tests or while using the headphones on the go.

Preparing the Aukey 20000 mAh Power Bank

Before starting any repairs, you need to ensure the power bank itself is ready to provide power:

• Charge the Power Bank
  Use the included USB‑C charger to fill the battery to at least 80 %. A low‑charged bank may not provide sufficient current for the headphones.

• Check Output Voltage
  If you have a multimeter, verify that the USB‑A port delivers 5 V. Most Aukey models are built for this standard, but it’s a quick sanity check.

• Locate the USB‑A Port
  The QuietComfort 35 II uses a standard USB‑A cable for charging. Place the cable in the power bank’s port and connect the other end to the headphone’s charging port.

• Turn On the Power Bank
  Some Aukey models require a button press to activate output. Make sure it is switched on and that the LED indicator shows “charging.”

Testing with the Power Bank

Once the power bank is connected:

1. Check the Headphones’ LED
   The QuietComfort 35 II has a small LED that indicates charging status. A steady green light typically means charging successfully; a flashing light may indicate an error.

2. Wait for a Full Charge
   Let the headphones charge for at least 30 minutes. During this time, the mic should remain inactive if the issue was battery related.

3. Disconnect and Reboot
   After charging, unplug the headphones and wait 10 seconds. Then plug them back in and let them boot up. This reset can clear temporary glitches.

If the mic still does not function after this test, move on to the next steps.

Reconnecting Bluetooth

A weak or corrupted Bluetooth connection can also suppress microphone input.

• Open Device Settings
  On your phone or computer, go to the Bluetooth settings and locate the QuietComfort 35 II.

• Forget the Device
  Tap “Forget” or “Remove” to delete the current pairing profile.

• Re‑pair
  Put the headphones into pairing mode by holding the power button until you hear a confirmation tone. Select the device from the list and complete the pairing process.

• Verify Audio
  Open a voice‑recording app and speak into the mic. If the audio appears, the mic is working; otherwise, proceed to firmware updates.

Updating Firmware

Bose regularly releases firmware updates that address audio issues, including mic problems.

• Download the Bose Connect App
  Install the app on your mobile device and add the headphones.

• Check for Updates
  In the app, look for a “Software Update” option. If an update is available, download and install it.

• Follow On‑Screen Instructions
  Keep the headphones near the phone and avoid turning them off during the update.

After the update completes, test the mic again. Firmware glitches are a common cause of intermittent mic failure.

Resetting the Headphones

A factory reset can clear persistent software bugs.

• Enter Reset Mode
  While the headphones are off, hold the power button for 20 seconds until you hear a tone. The headphones should indicate they are resetting.

• Reconnect
  After the reset, pair the headphones again with your device.

• Test the Mic
  Use an app or call to confirm mic functionality.

If the mic still fails, the next step is to check the mic settings on the host device.

Checking Mic Settings on Your Device

Sometimes the problem lies in the host’s audio configuration rather than the headphones.

On Android

1. Open Settings → Apps → (App using mic)
2. Tap Permissions
3. Ensure Microphone is Allowed
4. Restart the App

On iOS

1. Settings → Privacy → Microphone
2. Enable Microphone for the App

On Windows

1. Right‑click the speaker icon → Open Sound settings
2. Under Input, select QuietComfort 35 II
3. Check the volume level

Make sure no other application is exclusively holding the mic. Once settings are verified, try using the mic again.

Cleaning the Microphone

Physical debris can block the mic’s condenser. A simple cleaning often restores function.

1. Locate the Mic Aperture
   On the QuietComfort 35 II, the mic is situated near the earcup on the right side.

2. Use a Soft Brush
   Gently brush the aperture to remove dust or lint. Avoid using metal or liquid cleaners.

3. Blow Air Carefully
   If you suspect deeper debris, use a small air‑duster to blow out particles.

4. Re‑test
   Record a quick voice sample. A clearer tone indicates successful cleaning.

If cleaning does not resolve the issue, you may need to use an external microphone as a temporary workaround.

Using an External Microphone as a Temporary Fix

For users who need immediate mic access, a USB or Bluetooth external mic can serve as a stopgap.

• USB Mic
  Connect a compact USB mic to your laptop or phone. Some smartphones allow USB‑OTG connections.

• Bluetooth Mic
  Pair a small Bluetooth mic with your device and set it as the default input in the audio settings.

• Use Voice Apps
  Open your preferred calling or recording app, and select the external mic from the device’s audio input menu.

This workaround ensures you can continue working while you attempt to fully repair the QuietComfort 35 II.

When the Problem Persists: Contact Bose Support

If all previous steps fail, the mic issue may stem from internal hardware failure—damaged circuitry, a faulty mic capsule, or a broken connection inside the earcup. At this point:

• Gather Information
  Note the age of the headphones, warranty status, and all troubleshooting steps performed.

• Reach Out to Bose
  Visit the Bose support website, and choose “Headphones” → “QuietComfort 35 II.” You can schedule a repair or request a replacement if under warranty.

• Prepare for Shipping
  If Bose requests a return, package the headphones securely, include all accessories, and use a tracked shipping method.

• Alternative Repair Shops
  For out‑of‑warranty units, a reputable electronics repair shop may offer a mic replacement. Be sure to choose a technician familiar with Bose hardware.

Conclusion

A mic failure on the Bose QuietComfort 35 II can be frustrating, but most causes are addressable with systematic troubleshooting. By using a reliable power bank such as the Aukey 20000 mAh, you can stabilize power delivery and isolate battery or charging issues. Follow the structured steps—testing with the power bank, reconnecting Bluetooth, updating firmware, resetting the headphones, checking device settings, cleaning the mic, and employing an external mic if needed—to identify and often resolve the problem.

If hardware damage is confirmed, reach out to Bose support or a qualified repair service. With patience and methodical checks, many users find their mic is back to normal in under an hour, restoring the QuietComfort 35 II’s status as a premier noise‑cancelling headphone with a clear, reliable microphone.