The Mystery of Avengers' Earcomms in Endgame and Civil War

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has always been meticulous about its technical accuracy. However, some scenes in Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Endgame can leave viewers puzzled regarding the behavior of the earcomms used by the characters. Why can everyone hear Captain America in the final battle of Avengers: Endgame, but in Captain America: Civil War, the Iron Man team did not hear Cap's plan during the airport battle?

Technical Precision in the MCU

Earcomms, or communication headsets, in the MCU films serve a critical function. They operate based on the narrative needs of the story. If the story demands a private conversation between two characters, then only those two characters can hear it. If a third character must react, a switch to a different channel or for a comedic/dramatic effect, then the third can be included. However, when it comes to disseminating information to a team, the entire team receives the message, barring any comedic or dramatic exceptions.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

In Captain America: The Winter Soldier, there is a reference to setting the earcomms to a particular channel. This approach helps explain how different teams can communicate without overhearing each other's private conversations. However, it doesn't fully explain how characters can have a seemingly private conversation without switching channels.

Standard Communication Frequencies and Channels

When it comes to broadcast equipment, it is standard to establish a common frequency before an engagement, just like with Citizens' Band (CB) radios. Different teams could have their own default channels, similar to CB radios reverting to 'Channel 2' upon turning on. It is reasonable to assume that the Avengers' earcomms have a 'standard' channel as well.

Secrecy and Frequency Adjustments

To prevent the opposition from overhearing plans, teams typically use an alternate communication frequency. In the case of Captain America: Civil War, both the Iron Man team and Cap's team likely changed to an alternate frequency to prevent the other side from intercepting their plans. The standard frequency was used only when the teams were not in direct conflict, as was the case in Avengers: Endgame.

Alien Frequencies

Thanos' forces, being from an 'alien' realm, likely used a communication frequency that was completely different from those used by Earth's forces. Therefore, there was no need for the teams to change their frequencies during the final battle. The standard frequency was sufficient to keep communication lines open and secure.

Conclusion

The behavior of earcomms in the MCU is a testament to the attention to detail in the series. While certain scenes may seem puzzling, they are explained by the established technical rules. The use of alternate channels, standard frequencies, and the threatening environment of alien warfare all contribute to the seamless narrative of the Avengers' operations.