Last updated: March 5, 2026
Your AirPods (or AirPods Pro/Max) may fail to connect to your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other devices. They might not appear in the Bluetooth menu, disconnect frequently, or connect but produce no sound.
Bluetooth disabled: Bluetooth must be on for AirPods to connect.
AirPods battery dead: If the case or AirPods are out of charge, they won't connect.
Too many Bluetooth devices: Having many paired devices can cause connection conflicts.
Firmware issues: Outdated AirPods firmware can cause connectivity problems.
AirPods need resetting: Glitches in the pairing data may prevent connection.
• Make sure Bluetooth is turned on: Settings > Bluetooth > Toggle On.
• Check your AirPods battery: Open the case near your iPhone and wait for the battery popup.
• If the battery is low, charge the AirPods for at least 15 minutes before trying again.
• Place both AirPods in the charging case.
• Close the lid and wait 15 seconds.
• Open the lid near your device.
• If the connection popup appears, tap "Connect".
• Go to Settings > Bluetooth.
• Find your AirPods in the list and tap the "i" icon.
• Tap "Forget This Device".
• Put AirPods in the case, open the lid.
• Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the light flashes white.
• Hold the case near your device and follow the pairing prompts.
• Put both AirPods in the case and close the lid. Wait 30 seconds.
• Open the lid.
• Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for 15 seconds until the light flashes amber, then white.
• Re-pair the AirPods with your device.
• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
• This will reset all Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections.
• After the restart, pair your AirPods again.
• Make sure your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is running the latest software.
• On iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update.
• AirPods firmware updates automatically when connected and charging near your iPhone.
If your AirPods still won't connect after all steps, visit support.apple.com/airpods or book an appointment at an Apple Store. Your AirPods may have a hardware issue that requires service.
Q: Why do my AirPods connect but have no sound?
A: Check the volume level on your device. Also go to Settings > Bluetooth > tap the "i" next to your AirPods and make sure they're set as the audio output. Try playing audio from a different app.
Q: Can I connect AirPods to Android devices?
A: Yes, AirPods work with Android via Bluetooth. Go to your Android Bluetooth settings, put AirPods in pairing mode (hold the case button until the light flashes white), and select them.
Q: Why do my AirPods keep disconnecting?
A: This can be caused by low battery, distance from the device, Bluetooth interference, or too many connected devices. Keep your AirPods charged and stay within 30 feet of your device.
Q: How do I check my AirPods firmware version?
A: Connect your AirPods, then go to Settings > Bluetooth > tap the "i" next to your AirPods > scroll down to see the firmware version.