Not so Magic Mouse - audio interference
Is the a workaround on the 1657 Magic Mouse Audio Interference issue? I've tried disconnections, on/offs and using both wifi bandwidths. Did not resolve the issue
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So why is this happening?
Your Magic Mouse constantly streams high-frequency motion updates, while A2DP audio requires consistent timing slots. Some macOS Bluetooth stacks prioritize HID traffic incorrectly under certain chipset/firmware combinations, causing audio packet jitter rather than complete disconnects.
Since you’ve already tried the obvious basics, I’ll skip generic advice and provide you the workarounds that should help in real-world cases.
Force audio codec or bandwidth change
The problem is frequently BT bandwidth starvation — the mouse generates constant packets (especially with motion), starving A2DP.
Give the following steps a try:
- Install Apple Bluetooth Explorer (from Additional Tools for Xcode).
- Open Audio Options.
- Disable AAC or force SBC (test both directions).
- Reconnect headset.
Move Bluetooth onto a different controller
If your Mac supports it u\se a USB Bluetooth 5.x dongle instead of the internal radio. This separates scheduling queues, which often eliminates interference entirely. External adapters are commonly suggested when coexistence problems persist.
Disable Bluetooth “Handoff” features temporarily
- System Settings → General → AirDrop & Handoff → toggle off.
Check USB-C hub / RF noise
If you’re using:
- USB-C docks
- NVMe enclosures
- Cheap USB 3 hubs
They can inject 2.4GHz noise into the antenna path. Try:
- Disconnecting hubs temporarily
- Moving them away from Mac chassis
- Using shielded cables
Reduce mouse polling behavior
The Magic Mouse sends more packets during continuous tracking.
Try:
- Lower tracking speed slightly
- Disable “Swipe between pages” gestures
- Test with Accessibility → Pointer Control → Reduce motion tracking