How to connect AirPods to your laptop
AirPods aren't just for listening to tunes on your iPhone or catching up on podcasts during your morning walk - they're just as handy when you want to connect them to your laptop.
Connecting your AirPods to a laptop is quick and easy. With just a few clicks you'll be able to dive into a Zoom meeting, watch a movie, or just enjoy some music without disturbing the whole room. And don't forget, your AirPods can pair with non-Apple devices too.
A step-by-step guide to pairing AirPods
- Open your laptop's Bluetooth settings. On a MacBook, go to System Preferences > Bluetooth. On Windows, click Start Menu, type 'Bluetooth', then click Bluetooth & other devices settings.
- Put your AirPods in pairing mode. Make sure they're in the case with the lid open. Press and hold the button on the back until you see a flashing white light.
- Pair the AirPods with your laptop. On a Mac, click Connect under Devices. On Windows, click Add Bluetooth or other device, choose Bluetooth, and select your AirPods.
How to disconnect and reconnect AirPods
To disconnect: On Mac, go to the Bluetooth menu and click Disconnect. On Windows, find your AirPods in Bluetooth settings and click Disconnect.
To reconnect: On Mac, click Connect next to your AirPods. On Windows, go to Bluetooth settings and click Connect. Your AirPods are smart enough to reconnect automatically when they're the closest device.
Removing AirPods from Bluetooth
On Mac: System Preferences > Bluetooth, right-click your AirPods, select Remove. On Windows: Bluetooth & other devices settings, find AirPods, select Remove device.
Troubleshooting common issues
AirPods won't connect: Make sure Bluetooth is on and AirPods are charged. Try resetting by holding the back button until the light flashes amber then white.
Sound only from one AirPod: Put both back in the case briefly. Try cleaning the problematic one. Check audio balance settings.
Choppy audio: Move closer to your laptop or turn off other Bluetooth devices. Try unpairing and pairing again.
Handy Bluetooth shortcuts for Windows
- Windows Key + A opens the Action Centre for quick Bluetooth toggle.
- Windows Key + I opens Settings directly.
- Quick Settings Menu -- right-click the Bluetooth icon for direct access.
Using AirPods with non-Apple devices
AirPods work with Windows laptops, Android phones, and smart TVs. Put them in pairing mode, open Bluetooth settings, and select them. Some features like auto-pause may not work on non-Apple devices.
