Connecting AirPods lets you listen wirelessly through your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or another Bluetooth device. On Apple devices signed in to the same account, they usually link with a single tap.
What you'll need
- Your AirPods in their case
- The device you want to connect
Step by step
- Charge and open the casePut both AirPods in the case and make sure they have some charge before you begin.
- Bring them near your iPhoneUnlock your iPhone, hold the AirPods case close with the lid open, and wait for the setup card to slide up.
- Tap ConnectTap Connect on the card that appears, then follow any short prompts to finish linking them.
- Connect from Bluetooth settingsIf no card appears, open Settings, Bluetooth, and tap your AirPods in the list of devices to pair them.
- Put them in your earsOnce connected, place the AirPods in your ears and audio routes to them automatically.
Handy tips
- AirPods linked to your Apple Account connect automatically on your other Apple devices signed in with the same account.
- If they do not connect, put them back in the case, close the lid briefly, then open it and try again.
- Select your AirPods from the audio output control if sound is still playing through the phone speaker.
FAQ
How do I connect AirPods to a non-Apple device?
Open the case lid, hold the button on the back until the light flashes white, then choose the AirPods from that device's Bluetooth menu.
Why will my AirPods not connect?
Check they are charged, then close the case lid for a moment and reopen it. If it still fails, forget the device in Bluetooth settings and pair again.
Do AirPods connect to more than one device at a time?
They switch automatically between Apple devices on the same account, but they actively play audio from one device at a time.