wired headphones not recognized unless replugged after turning Mac on

I have this situation where my headphones are plugged into my iMac, and although I have them plugged in and I turn on my Mac, my headphones do not play anything, the speakers from the Mac play instead, and I have to disconnect and connect them so I can hear through them. I would like to ask: Is it normal for your iMac to play sound through their speakers, although there are headphones are plugged in? Like I said, previously, my headphones are already plugged in, but when I turn on my iMac, my headphones aren't recognized and my speakers from the iMac play instead. Thank you for the response in advance. I really appreciate a comment back. This is just something I was thinking about to ask since it bugs me sometimes when I really want to listen to something and my headphones are recognized after turning on my iMac have a good day! (iMac 24 inch 2024 M4)

iMac 24″

Posted on Sep 24, 2025 10:12 PM

Reply
1 reply

Sep 24, 2025 10:41 PM in response to guajabry

The only thing I can think of is to start by simply doing a Safe Mode (Safe Mode) restart. STRONGLY recommend that you use your iMacs keyboard charging cable to plug the keyboard into the back of Mac to ensure they keyboard and computer are talking together when doing a Safe Mode restart. Be patient on the Safe Mode restart to ensure it starts in Safe Mode, it will be indicated on the Mac's screen. Once the restart has been completed, restart normally and test your headphones.


Also, if you happen to have ANY of the following types of third party apps installed, that likely is the problems source!


  • Antivirus
  • Cleaning
  • Security
  • VPN
  • Maintenance

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

wired headphones not recognized unless replugged after turning Mac on

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.