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How to Connect Apple AirPods to Non-Apple Devices
To connect Apple AirPods to a non-Apple device, turn on Bluetooth, put the AirPods in pairing mode, then choose them from the device list. They work as a Bluetooth headset for audio and calls; the pairing gesture depends on the model.
What to expect
AirPods do not need a special app for basic Bluetooth pairing. Apple says you can listen and talk with them on non-Apple devices, but Siri is unavailable. Apple setup animations and automatic switching between devices on the same Apple Account are ecosystem features, so you may need to select AirPods manually when moving between a phone and computer. Some model-specific settings may require Apple software.
Charge the earbuds and case, keep the earbuds inside with the lid open, and place the case near the device. AirPods Max pair directly from the headphones.
Put AirPods in pairing mode
Turn on Bluetooth on the device you want to connect. Then use the matching gesture. A flashing white status light means AirPods are discoverable.
- AirPods 1, 2, or 3; AirPods Pro 1 or 2: Open the case and hold the setup button on its back for about five seconds, until the light flashes white.
- AirPods 4 or 5; AirPods Pro 3: Open the case, hold it near the device, and double-tap the front until the light flashes white.
- AirPods Max: Hold the listening-mode button for about five seconds, until the status light flashes white.
Apple’s non-Apple pairing guide has the current gesture for each model.
Connect AirPods to Android
- Swipe down from the top of the screen and touch and hold Bluetooth. Depending on the phone, you can also open Settings and choose Connected devices or Connections.
- Turn Bluetooth on and tap Pair new device. If you do not see it, check available devices or refresh the list.
- Put AirPods in pairing mode, tap their name when it appears, and accept any prompt.
For later use, choose AirPods under saved devices if they do not reconnect. Android menu names vary; see Google’s Bluetooth setup guide.
Connect AirPods to Windows 11
- Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices and turn Bluetooth on.
- Select the network, sound, or battery area beside the taskbar clock. Open the arrow next to Bluetooth to manage devices.
- With AirPods discoverable, select them under New devices, follow any prompt, and choose Done.
If they do not appear, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device > Bluetooth. See Microsoft’s Windows pairing instructions.
Connect AirPods to a Chromebook
- Select the time in the lower-right corner, then turn on Bluetooth.
- Select + Pair new device.
- Put AirPods in pairing mode, select them from the list, and follow any prompt. Confirm they appear under Currently connected.
If Bluetooth is not in Quick Settings, open Settings and find Bluetooth. Google’s Chromebook guide covers pairing and reconnecting.
Select AirPods for sound
If pairing succeeds but sound still comes from the computer, select AirPods as the output. In Windows, use the taskbar sound control or open Settings > System > Sound > Output. On Android or Chromebook, check the media or Bluetooth panel and make sure AirPods is the active device.
Troubleshoot a failed connection
- AirPods are missing: Reopen the case, repeat the correct pairing gesture until the light flashes white, and keep the case close.
- They will not connect: Temporarily turn off Bluetooth on a nearby Apple device that may already be using them, then try again.
- They were paired before: Remove or forget AirPods in the host device’s Bluetooth settings, then pair again.
- They connect without sound: Select AirPods as the output and check the app and device volume.
You can also toggle Bluetooth off and on or restart the host device. Use factory reset only as a last resort: steps differ by AirPods model. Follow Apple’s model-specific reset instructions instead of holding one button on every case.
Official references
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