On my AirPods 3 generation, the stems don’ respond to touch. How do I fix this?

Hey there Josephhall98!

Thanks for reaching out here in Apple Support Communities. Based on your post it sounds like you're having trouble using the controls on your AirPods.

Have you tried restarting the paired device to see if that helps?

If so, we would recommend resetting the AirPods and test using a different device if possible.

How to reset your AirPods and AirPods Pro

Keep us updated.

Cheers!

Control audio with your AirPods Pro or AirPods (3rd generation)

• To play and pause audio, press the force sensor on the stem of an AirPod. To resume playback, press again.
• To skip forward, double-press the force sensor.
• To skip back, triple-press the force sensor.
• To turn the volume up or down, say "Hey Siri," then say something like "Turn up the volume" or "Turn down the volume." Or drag the volume slider in the app that you're listening to, on the Lock Screen, or in Control Center. You can also open Now Playing on your Apple Watch and turn the Digital Crown to make your AirPods Pro or AirPods (3rd generation) louder or quieter.

You have to squeeze the force sensor.