How to fix AirPods that won’t connect

Wed-Nov-2023
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It’s frustrating when your AirPods won’t connect to your iPhone, iPad, or MacBook. Luckily, there are a few things you can try to fix the problem.

General Troubleshooting Tips

  1. Check for Bluetooth connectivity issues: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your device. You can find the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone or iPad in the Settings app under “Bluetooth.” On your MacBook, click on the Bluetooth icon in the top right corner of the menu bar.

  2. Restart your AirPods: Place both AirPods in the charging case and close the lid. Wait for 15 seconds, then open the lid. Hold the setup button on the back of the charging case until the status light flashes amber.

  3. Restart your device: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues. Turn off your iPhone, iPad, or MacBook, wait a minute, and then turn it back on.

  4. Forget and re-pair your AirPods: If the above steps don’t work, you may need to forget and re-pair your AirPods. To do this, follow these steps:

    • On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
    • Tap on the “i” icon next to your AirPods.
    • Select “Forget This Device.”
    • Place your AirPods in the charging case and open the lid.
    • Hold your iPhone or iPad near the charging case, and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your AirPods again.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips for Specific Devices

iPhone or iPad:

  1. Update your iPhone or iPad to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS: Sometimes, software updates can fix connectivity issues. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for updates.

  2. Reset network settings: If you’ve tried everything else, you can reset your network settings. This will erase all saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth connections, so make sure you have them handy before proceeding. To reset your network settings, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

MacBook:

  1. Update your MacBook to the latest version of macOS: Go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update to check for updates.

  2. Check for interference: If you’re using other wireless devices, such as a wireless mouse or keyboard, try moving them away from your MacBook. Interference from other devices can sometimes affect Bluetooth connectivity.

  3. Reset the SMC: The SMC (System Management Controller) manages low-level functions on your MacBook, including Bluetooth. Resetting the SMC can sometimes fix connectivity issues. The SMC reset process varies depending on your MacBook model. You can find instructions for resetting the SMC on Apple’s support website.

If you’ve tried all of these steps and your AirPods still won’t connect, you may need to contact Apple Support for further assistance.

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