Fix iOS Simulator Audio Glitches on macOS

If you stream Spotify, watch YouTube, or play anything on your Mac, then launch the iOS Simulator, you can get pops or stutter. Two fast fixes below.

Quick Fix: Restart Core Audio

Run after launching Simulator. No app restarts required.

sudo killall coreaudiod

Core Audio restarts and clears distortion. Re-run when glitches return.

Persistent Fix: Route Simulator Audio to BlackHole

Use a virtual device to isolate Simulator output from system audio.

1. Install BlackHole — see: How to Install BlackHole on macOS.
2. In iOS Simulator: I/O → Audio Output → select BlackHole 2ch (or 4ch if needed).

This routes Simulator audio away from your speakers so Spotify or Apple Music stays clean.

When to Use Which

• Core Audio restart: quickest for short debug sessions.
• BlackHole: best for daily work. Stable and no repeated commands.

Notes

• sudo prompts for your admin password.
• After macOS updates, the output device can reset. Reselect BlackHole in Simulator.