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iPhone7 Bluetooth issue in the car

My brand new Iphone7 seems to have bluetooth problems in my car. Everything works but the sound drops sometimes (often) when I listen to music. I didnt have this issue wiyh my 6s and IOS10. I tried to reset everything but the problem persists. The iPhone is recognized by the radio inmy Toyota, but the sound drops just as it was a radio in a tunnel.

iPhone 7, iOS 10

Posted on Sep 21, 2016 4:03 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 5, 2017 9:18 AM

I provided this to the techs weeks ago, but it seems like there was no headway. So here are the results of my trials for everyone to read:


I work in an environment where I have access to soundproof rooms. The walls are steel with padding and are about 6" thick (solid). These are "dead spots" for wireless in my building, which I surveyed and had to plan around because of the walls. I also work with deploying a lot of iOS devices, so most of my colleagues have an iPhone.


Testing environment:

I tested the area with an OptiView XG using AirMagnet Spectrum XT software. This device and software is used to measure the amount of Radio Frequency (RF) radiation in a given area to troubleshoot issues with wireless, and to help design wireless networks for large corporations. This helped me to ensure that there were no stray 2.4GHz interferers while testing, meaning that the only devices emitting 2.4GHz band RF were the "Devices" listed below (Beats Pill, Plantronics Backbeats, Braven BRV-1) and the phones.


Additionally, I tested the cars listed below in several environments with and without interferers nearby. These were less controlled, however mirrored the exact same results.


Stuttering/Skipping:

To show an example of the skipping sound that I am referring to, please take a look at this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGHFDRVA958


Bluetooth devices tested:

  • Cars: 2013 Ford Focus, 2011 Toyota Venza, 2007 BMW 335i, 2006 VW Jetta
  • Devices: Beats Pill, Plantronics Backbeats, Braven BRV-1


iPhones tested:

  • iPhone 6s - No problems
  • iPhone 6s Plus - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (T-Mobile, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Sprint, A1661) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 (Verizon, A1660) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Verizon, A1661) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Verizon, A1661) - No problems
  • There were two other GSM iPhone 7 Pluses that I trialed, but I don't have the model numbers in front of me to list to provide exact details. Both had issues.


As you can see, the issues are localized to the GSM models using the new Intel modems. This further solidifies the belief that there is an existing hardware issue and not a problem with software, interference, or other manufacturer's devices. I'm not sure what else I can do to troubleshoot with the Apple reps, but after spending upwards of $5000 with Apple in 2016, I can't help but to feel neglected.

707 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 5, 2017 9:18 AM in response to Bronco Nation

I provided this to the techs weeks ago, but it seems like there was no headway. So here are the results of my trials for everyone to read:


I work in an environment where I have access to soundproof rooms. The walls are steel with padding and are about 6" thick (solid). These are "dead spots" for wireless in my building, which I surveyed and had to plan around because of the walls. I also work with deploying a lot of iOS devices, so most of my colleagues have an iPhone.


Testing environment:

I tested the area with an OptiView XG using AirMagnet Spectrum XT software. This device and software is used to measure the amount of Radio Frequency (RF) radiation in a given area to troubleshoot issues with wireless, and to help design wireless networks for large corporations. This helped me to ensure that there were no stray 2.4GHz interferers while testing, meaning that the only devices emitting 2.4GHz band RF were the "Devices" listed below (Beats Pill, Plantronics Backbeats, Braven BRV-1) and the phones.


Additionally, I tested the cars listed below in several environments with and without interferers nearby. These were less controlled, however mirrored the exact same results.


Stuttering/Skipping:

To show an example of the skipping sound that I am referring to, please take a look at this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGHFDRVA958


Bluetooth devices tested:

  • Cars: 2013 Ford Focus, 2011 Toyota Venza, 2007 BMW 335i, 2006 VW Jetta
  • Devices: Beats Pill, Plantronics Backbeats, Braven BRV-1


iPhones tested:

  • iPhone 6s - No problems
  • iPhone 6s Plus - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (T-Mobile, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Sprint, A1661) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 (Verizon, A1660) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Verizon, A1661) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Verizon, A1661) - No problems
  • There were two other GSM iPhone 7 Pluses that I trialed, but I don't have the model numbers in front of me to list to provide exact details. Both had issues.


As you can see, the issues are localized to the GSM models using the new Intel modems. This further solidifies the belief that there is an existing hardware issue and not a problem with software, interference, or other manufacturer's devices. I'm not sure what else I can do to troubleshoot with the Apple reps, but after spending upwards of $5000 with Apple in 2016, I can't help but to feel neglected.

Jan 19, 2017 6:04 AM in response to brunowajskop

Happy 120 days (4 months) of an open case! My Apple support rep has not responded to me for about a week, so figured I'd get some traction again. I should also note that I finally had the chance to use my Airpods for an extended period of time and have experienced skipping; though it seems to be more of a quick disconnect rather than the speeding up like in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGHFDRVA958


About a month ago I launched a Google Survey on Reddit and got quite a few responses. Below are the results which I finally had time to compile:


Percentage of people who report an issue: 71.4%

  • Percentage of people who report an issue that are using GSM phone: 75.7%
  • Percentage of people who report an issue that are using CDMA phone: 18.6%
  • Did not check model number: 5.7%


Workaround results

  • Turning off LTE fixes their streaming issues: 62.5%
  • Turning off LTE does not fix their streaming issues: 8.6%
  • Did not try turning off LTE: 28.9%


Here is a screen cap of the survey just in case anyone is wondering what questions I asked.

User uploaded file

Jan 26, 2017 6:54 PM in response to brunowajskop

I am copying my posts and updates from another thread that is about the same problem.


iPhone 7 Bluetooth constantly disconnects and reconnects from my Ford SYNC system.

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/7670674?start=0&tstart=0


01-05-2017

I have the exact same problem with my iPhone 7 and my 2014 Ford F-150 with SYNC. It worked flawlessly for almost 2 years with an iPhone 5S. As soon as I upgraded to the iPhone7 it started randomly disconnecting and re-connecting the Bluetooth connection during every phone call and sometimes while playing music. I tried deleting and repairing, restarting the phone and using another iPhone7... nothing has fixed the problem. I contacted Apple And theye opened a case, but after troubleshooting they said I need to have the firmware in my vehicle updated. I just looked it up on MyFord site, and I have the latest firmware, there isn't an upgrade.


I think this is an iPhone7 issue as I can use any other version of iPhone (other than 7) and it works perfectly. I am disappointed in Apple's inability to recognize and solve this issue. I have loved every Apple product I have owned, until now...


Any feedback from others who have solved this issue would be greatly appreciated.


01-16-2017

Update to my previous post:

I checked the My Ford site again, and confirmed that the iPhone 7 is not listed on the SYNC compatible device list for SYNC version 3.7. I tech chatted with Ford SYNC tech support to advise them and they told me that there is actually an updated version of SYNC (v 3.8) for my vehicle, and it must be installed by the dealer. The My Ford site says that my vehicle has the most updated version and there isn't a version 3.8 listed, but the Ford SYNC tech support rep was confident that this upgrade will correct the problem. I have a service appointment this week and will update this post after I get the upgrade to let everyone know if it works or not.


01-24-2017

Latest Update: I had my Ford F-150 at the dealer all day today. They installed the latest version of Sync on my system (SYNC v 3.10), and did a hard system reset. Unfortunately, my iPhone 7 still does the same thing: while using the phone or voice texting through the SYNC system, the Bluetooth connection will disconnect and reconnect randomly. Sometimes it will go several minutes without disconnecting and sometimes it will do it every 20 seconds. It never drops the call, it just disconnects and reconnects the Bluetooth connection. This never happened with my last iPhone (5s), it worked flawlessly for almost two years. I am going to update my Apple service request, as it appears the ball is back in Apple's court.


01-24-2017

Second call with Apple support. They had me reset the phone to factory settings and set it up as new. I did, it didn't solve the Bluetooth connectivity problem.


01-25-2017

I had my third call with Apple support, my senior advisor scheduled an appointment for me to bring the phone to the Apple Store for further testing.

May 22, 2017 6:35 AM in response to BigNate64

There are a whole bunch of topics about this bluetooth issue. Apple seems to be still trying (or not) to fix this problem. I don't know if software (iOS updates) can fix this. In the US there are 2 different types of iPhones and different modems. In The Netherlands we only have the Intel crap (model A1778)...!


Come on Apple!!! Please provide us with some info...!!!


Re: iPhone 7 Bluetooth connectivity with Ford SYNC malfunctions

Aug 11, 2017 6:27 AM in response to brunowajskop

User uploaded file


Hi @@@@@,


Your support Advisor has a follow-up message for you.
Hi @@@@@,
@@@@ here from Apples Senior Division.
As discussed, Apple are aware of the issue regarding the iPhone 7 having bluetooth connection issues with Ford SNYC stereos.


This is currently under investigation with our engineers who are working on a resolution however, there is no resolution at this time.Your case ID is : @@@@@@@Please let me know if you would like to discuss your case further.All the best ,
@@@@
If you want to put some product feedback in , you can here
http://www.apple.com/feedback/
If you need further assistance, contact a member of our technical support team on 0800 107 6285 in the UK or 1800 804062 in Ireland.
Best Regards,
@@@@
iOS Senior Technical Advisor
Apple Distribution International,
Cork, Republic of Ireland

 Apple Distribution International

This Electronic Mail (e-mail) contains confidential and privileged information intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is sent. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivery to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify the sender by reply e-mail or telephone.

At Apple, we believe that inclusion inspires innovation. Learn about our commitment to inclusion and diversity at www.apple.com/diversity/
If you need to reopen this case, click the link below.


Case: @@@@@@


We are here to help. At Apple Support, you can learn more about your product, download the latest software updates, and share tips and solutions with other users. You can also find out the best way to contact us.


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Oct 18, 2017 2:42 PM in response to mjm24

I have an iPhone 7, and everything was peachy before iOS 11. Upgraded the other day (current on 11.0.2), and since then I can't use voice commands to dial by name for most of my contacts. Looking at it just now, it looks like most of my contacts are NOT syncing over with the name. It appears only about 30 or so are there. When I initially set it to auto sync, it says my phone may ask for permission, but it never does. The names appear briefly, but the first time I try to dial by name for one of them using voice commands, it gives me an error beep and can't find the contact. I've restarted phone and car, and even forgot the devices on each and repaired. No joy. If anyone has had this problem and got it resolved please let me know how. I'm having a feeling I'm going to be waiting for a fix from Apple, but I might bite the bullet and roll back to iOS 10 before they take that option away. Between this and the battery draining so quickly, I think I'm going to wait for a later version.


send apple feedback here : Product Feedback - Apple


or submit a bug report here http://bugreport.apple.com/

Jan 4, 2017 8:46 PM in response to brunowajskop

Mine had a bad fit of stuttering yesterday, but I didn't have a way to record it. If it happens this weekend when my wife is in the car I'll have her record it.


I didn't fully describe it in my first post, so for there record, here's how it typically works for me in my 2014 Toyota:

  • Generally (but not always), when it first connects, it's ok. Maybe for 30 minutes, maybe for 3 hours.
  • Then at some point it will start to skip and stutter, a little at first, them more and more until it's unintelligible. Although sometimes it will recover, but then return to this state within 30 minutes.
  • And again, in the Toyota, the stuttering is usually short pauses with fast broken audio in-between, but still with some audio missing. Although at times I've noticed larger stretches of audiobooks and music that seem to speed up and slow down.
  • Around when it starts to stutter badly, the radio will stop displaying track and title info, and simply say "Streaming Audio." When it does that I know it's time to give up, soon after it's stuck stuttering until it loses the connection completely.


I can sometimes get it back by going into airplane mode and back, and then reconnecting. Sometimes the radio can't find the phone until I restart the phone.


In my wife's 2014 VW it's similar, although I don't recall if it stops displaying track info. And it also does something similar with my UE Boom 2 speaker. It will also make sounds indicating the phone is frequently disconnecting and reconnecting.

My previous two iPhones (6+ and 6s+) worked perfectly in these same vehicles, and my wife's 6+ works perfectly in both of them now (and with the speaker). Compared to the 6+ and 6s+, this phone had three notable problems when I got it -- bluetooth connectivity, GPS, and running hot (and dimming the screen). Updates seem to have fixed the GPS problems at least.


My replacement phone arrives tomorrow . . . it probably won't fix the problem, but hopefully Apple will use that as a data point and figure out a real solution, whether it's firmware or hardware.

Jan 6, 2017 7:30 PM in response to jdiggie

Unfortunately not. I'm not expecting the LTE band to be the culprit, but I guess that's not out of the question. Just for reference, here's that list again:


iPhones tested:

  • iPhone 6s - No problems
  • iPhone 6s Plus - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (AT&T, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (T-Mobile, A1784) - Stuttering
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Sprint, A1661) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 (Verizon, A1660) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Verizon, A1661) - No problems
  • iPhone 7 Plus (Verizon, A1661) - No problems
  • There were two other GSM iPhone 7 Pluses that I trialed, but I don't have the model numbers in front of me to list to provide exact details. Both had issues.

Jan 8, 2017 11:13 AM in response to Bronco Nation

I think you mean the non-CDMA phones as opposed to GSM phones? All current models of the iPhone 7 and 7 plus are GSM phones. From the Apple spec pages:


  • Model A1660* / Model A1661*
    FDD-LTE (Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30)
    TD-LTE (Bands 38, 39, 40, 41)
    TD-SCDMA 1900 (F), 2000 (A)
    CDMA EV-DO Rev. A (800, 1900, 2100 MHz)
    UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz)
    GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
  • Model A1778* / Model A1784*
    FDD-LTE (Bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30)
    TD-LTE (Bands 38, 39, 40, 41)
    UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1700/2100, 1900, 2100 MHz)
    GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
    Models A1778 and A1784 do not support CDMA networks, such as those used by Verizon and Sprint.



Updating my own issue, it turns out they didn't really unlock the locked phone they sent me to replace the unlocked one. (Which so far does't appear to have fixed the stuttering issue anyway.) It takes about 6-8 hours for me to back it up, restore it to factory settings, then restore it from backup, just to check. Plus a few more hours to download data that does't get saved, set up passwords and permissions again, etc. I've done all that at least three times in about the last week now with all the troubleshooting, it's getting old. I wish Apple would come up with a real solution instead of making us pointlessly jump through hoops.

Feb 5, 2017 4:21 PM in response to brunowajskop

I purchased the A1784 model through AT&T Next at the end of Nov 2016. I only decided to contact Apple to solve this last month, so I way passed the 14-days AT&T Next return date or 30-day (?) Apple return date.


Long story short, some facts below:

  • Replacement phone with the same model A1784 didn't fix this. (expected)
  • In order to only deal with Apple, I paid off the phone on AT&T Next in full. (That actually didn’t help anything.)
  • Apple couldn't return my money because from their system they could only see the part I had paid to them which was the tax. I had paid all the rest to AT&T so they couldn't do anything.
  • They couldn't exchange a different model because their system simply didn't allow that.
  • They offered me 10% off + a free case for a new Iphone7 plus.
  • I replaced the phone with a new unopened A1784 (phone only in a small white box) from them so that it would have better resale value.


Then I sold the 1784 on Ebay and got the new A1661 today. I did some math to see, from financial perspective, how much I've lost/gained from this.


A1784

  • Cost: $869 + $40.95 tax (bought while traveling in Hawaii) + $8.24 case = $918.19
  • Sold the phone+case bundle on Ebay, got $836.55 in pocket after fees
  • Total net loss = $918.19 - $836.55 = $81.64


A1661

  • Cost: $867.8 out-of-pocket with the offer they gave me
  • What I got: the phone + leather case = ($869 + $49) * 1.098 tax = $1007.96
  • Net gain = $140.16



So I didn’t lose money, but given all the hassles and time spent on this, it’s NOT worth it at all. However, in case any AT&T Next users feel stuck with this issue, you do have such an option to get out of this.

Feb 6, 2017 12:32 PM in response to brunowajskop

I have read some tips and this one might help you out.


Step 3 Reset iPhone network settings

If you are still not successful enough to get it running then you should reset your iPhone’s network settings. But this should be your last option. Resetting the network settings will erase all the saved settings and password of your network. you better keep the password handy.

To do so, please follow 4 simple steps.

  1. Go to the Settingsapp and tap General.
  2. Press the Reset option.
  3. Tap Reset Network Settings option.
  4. Now you can enter the passcode and confirm that you wish to reset by tapping OK.

    Source

Jan 3, 2017 3:09 PM in response to RobbStumpf

My AT&T iPhone 7+ has had intermittent stuttering problems since it was new. It happens in every car I've tried (Toyota, VW, Ford) and with Bluetooth speakers, so it's absurd that Apple tries to blame it on the car. (If your product is incompatible with every major car manufacturer, you're doing it wrong.) I kept hoping a software update would fix it, but finally gave up and contacted Apple this week. They are sending me a replacement but after reading this thread I'm not very hopeful it will solve the problem.


What's amazing in talking to them -- the two times I've contacted them, mentioning a Bluetooth problem got me bumped to a "Senior Advisor" but that personality n really had no more idea what the problem was. At the Apple Support call center level they don't really seem aware of the problem, or what to do other than send out replacement phones.

Jan 3, 2017 7:39 PM in response to brunowajskop

same here... 2013 tacoma and an iphone 7s


I've tried clearing out all BT profiles on both devices, reset network settings on phone, shutting off, etc.. Havent done a clean wipe of phone yet, but as it works with other bluetooth headsets this does feel like a backwards compatibility issue.


Would love to see a fix for this Apple.


#BTGate

iPhone7 Bluetooth issue in the car

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