How to Fix It When an Xbox One Controller Wont Recognize the Headset

There are various ways that your Xbox One Controller Wont Recognize the Headset may not be detecting your headset. When you cannot hear other players, and they cannot listen to you, you will know there is a problem. A greyed-out volume-up option in the Xbox One settings or the appearance of muted chat in-game are additional signs that something is wrong.

These issues may arise when an Xbox One headset is being used or plugged in for the first time. But when you try to initiate a voice chat, that's usually when you'll notice the problem.

Why Xbox One Controllers Don't Recognise Headsets

Issues with the Xbox One console, hardware and firmware malfunctions in the controller, physical flaws in the headset, and incorrect settings can all contribute to your Xbox One controller not recognising your headset.

Ways to Make Your Xbox One Controller Detect Your Headphones

Try the following fixes in the correct order, and after each step, see if your headset is functional:

Verify that the Xbox One and controller are connected. If not, resolving an Xbox One controller issue that isn't connecting might also resolve the headset problem.
Verify that the headset is securely attached to the controller. The headset won't connect well enough, and the controller won't detect it if it isn't seated correctly or fully plugged in. Replug it after unplugging it.
Verify that the headset is not muted. The headset likely includes a mute feature that could give the impression that the controller isn't picking it up. Look for an in-line mute switch if you have a 3.5 mm chat headset. If not, look for a mute button on the left side of the connector that plugs into the expansion port on the controller.
Boost the volume on your headset. It will only be possible for you to hear someone if the headset audio is fully deactivated. You can adjust the audio level by using the in-line volume wheel or the buttons on the connector plugged into the controller's expansion port.
Boost the audio input on the console. The Xbox One's volume controls are also movable. Choose the controller by going to Settings > Device & Accessories, then tweak the audio parameters.

To test the headset:

Use the Skype app on your Xbox One. This will verify that the issue is with you and not with Xbox Party Chat or your friends' hardware.
Open the Skype app and log in to the Xbox network to conduct a test.
Go to People > Skype Test Call > Voice Call, press the microphone button when it appears, and then wait to hear if your voice comes back.
The controller doesn't detect the headset if you can't hear your voice.
Attempt a different controller. Put in the headset and sync another Xbox One controller if you have multiple controllers. If it functions, the initial controller isn't working correctly.
Switch to a different headset. If another headset that you plug in functions, there appears to be an issue with the first one. Since no software or firmware is in headsets, a broken wire or a malfunctioning mute switch are the most likely causes of failure.
Make sure the headset and controller are clean. Check the headset, cord, and plug for any damage after unplugging it. The headset might need to be fixed if the plug is bent or the cable is frayed. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean it if it's dirty.
Examine the headset connector on the Xbox One controller while it is disconnected. If debris is visible, try using compressed air to remove it or use a cotton swab that has been lightly dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the port.
Verify your online safety and privacy settings. You won't be able to chat if your Xbox One privacy settings are too strict. Press the Xbox button on the controller and go to Settings > Account > Privacy & online safety > View details & customise> to check your settings. Talk and text with each other > All.
Update the firmware on the controller. You should update the Xbox One controller because Microsoft released a firmware update at one point that made specific headsets inoperable.
Reinstall the controller's batteries. An Xbox One headset may malfunction due to low or dead batteries. Replace the batteries with brand-new or recently charged ones to rule out this issue.
Put the controller on your user account. You should link the Xbox One controller to your Microsoft Account if it has somehow disconnected from your Gamertag profile.

Turn the console on and off. Turn off the Xbox One and the controllers if the headset is still not recognised by the controller. After the LED on the console turns off, press and hold the power button on the front and wait for the controllers to shut off. Alternatively, turn the controllers off immediately and take the batteries out. The Xbox One should turn on after a few minutes. Your TV should display the bootup animation, which shows that the power cycle of the console was successful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How can I repair my Xbox One controller's headset jack?

Ans: First, confirm that the microphone is not muted and inspect the cord for any damage. Update the firmware on the controller and clear the audio port with compressed air. You can attempt to fix the Xbox One Controller headphone jack yourself if it still doesn't work.

Q2. How can I use an Xbox One headset if I don't have a controller?

Ans: It would help if you had a headset that supports Microsoft's wireless protocol to connect a headset to your Xbox One wirelessly. Turn on the console, plug in the USB adapter, and turn on the headset if the console has a wireless adapter. The headset might have a base station or be able to be manually synced if it isn't packaged with a wireless adapter.

Q3. Can I use my Xbox One to use a USB headset?

Ans: Sure, but only if it's made especially for the Xbox One. The Xbox One cannot be connected to most non-gaming headsets via USB.