How to Connect AirPods to MacBook (2023): 4 Simple Steps + Troubleshooting

how to connect airpods to macbook

Why won’t my AirPods connect to my MacBook? Make sure your AirPods are fully charged and have been reset. Get connected in no time with our easy-to-follow guides and learn how to connect AirPods to MacBook. If you’re still having trouble connecting AirPods to your MacBook, our AirPods troubleshooting guides will fix them for you.

As a fellow owner of AirPods, MacBooks, and Windows laptops, I had my fair share of experience on this topic. I spent hours putting this guide together on how to connect AirPods to MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and Windows Laptop, so you can enjoy a smooth audio experience that complements your busy lifestyle.

How to Connect AirPods to MacBook Air (2023)

In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology has brought us a lot of conveniences. And one such wonder is Apple’s AirPods. These Bluetooth earbuds have revolutionized the way we listen to music, watch videos, and take calls. The best part is that they can seamlessly connect to other Apple devices.

Whether you’re a seasoned MacBook user, Windows Laptop user, or new to the world of Apple AirPods, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in to get you connected in no time. Follow these steps to pair your AirPods or AirPods Pro.

1. Turn on the Bluetooth on your MacBook

You can do this by going to MacBook’s Bluetooth settings. On the top-left corner of your screen, click the “Apple logo > System Settings > Bluetooth”. Toggle the Bluetooth switch to “On” if it’s not already active. See the screenshot below.

Step 1 How to Connect AirPods to MacBook

2. Open the AirPods Case

Keep your AirPods inside the case and make sure your AirPods are charged.

Step 2 How to Connect AirPods to MacBook

3. Press the Small Round Button on the back of the AirPods Charging Case

Press and hold the button on the back of the case. Wait until the status light inside the charging case starts flashing white. You can find the status light of AirPods Pro in front of the case.

Step 3 How to Connect AirPods to MacBook

4. Select your AirPods in the nearby devices list

Check if your AirPods are available in Nearby Devices. Click the connect button next to your AirPods to pair them. By now, you should be using AirPods to watch your favorite movies or listen to your favorite music. Enjoy and happy listening!

Step 4 How to Connect AirPods to MacBook

Author’s Note: If your AirPods are connected to your iPhone and signed in using the same Apple ID. Your AirPods can automatically connect and switch your AirPods back and forth between Apple devices hassle-free, and that is thanks to Apple’s seamless integration with other Apple devices. 

How to Connect AirPods to Laptop (2023)

how to connect AirPods to laptop

Did you know that you can also use your AirPods with Laptop? If you own both AirPods and Windows Laptops. Here’s the step-by-step guide on how to connect AirPods to Laptop.

1. Put both of your AirPods in the case and close it. Then wait for a few seconds.

2. Open the Apple AirPods case lid.

3. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the Apple AirPods Charging case. Wait until the status light inside the charging case starts flashing white. You can find the status light of AirPods Pro in front of the case.

4. Turn on the Bluetooth on your Windows Laptop. You can do this by going to “Setting > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices”, then turn the Bluetooth on.

5. Click on “Add Bluetooth or other device” and then click “Bluetooth”. After a few seconds, a list of available Bluetooth devices will load. Click the icon of your AirPods.

6. Click Done in the window pop-up screen declaring Your device is ready to go!

7. To remove AirPods from your laptop go to “Setting > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices”. Under the Audio tab click Remove device.

Whether you have a MacOS or Windows laptop, the pairing process is quick and easy.

Why are my AirPods Not Connecting to my MacBook?

Despite the simplicity of the process, you might occasionally encounter issues connecting your AirPods to your MacBook. If you face any challenges why airpods not connecting to MacBook, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can try. First, make sure your AirPods are fully charged and have been reset. You can also try disabling and re-enabling Bluetooth on your MacBook. If the problem persists, consider restarting your MacBook and resetting your AirPods entirely.

AirPods Troubleshooting Guide

1. Enable Bluetooth

Double-check that Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone. You can do this by going to “Settings,” and selecting “Bluetooth”. Toggle the Bluetooth switch to “On” if it’s not already active.

2. Restart Bluetooth

If your AirPods are in pairing mode but still not connecting, try turning Bluetooth off and then back on. You can do this by going to “Settings,” and selecting “Bluetooth”. Toggle the Bluetooth switch to “Off”. Wait for a few seconds and then turn it back on. 

3. Turn off Bluetooth On Your Other Devices

Sometimes, by turning off your other Bluetooth devices (especially your other Apple devices) can resolve minor connectivity issues. You may now try to connect AirPods to your iPhone.

4. Charge Your AirPods

Check if your AirPods have a sufficient battery charge. If their battery is critically low, they may not connect to your iPhone. Charge your AirPods in their charging case and try connecting them again.

5. Reset Your AirPods

If the problem persists, try resetting your AirPods. Put the AirPods in their charging case and close it. Wait for 30 seconds. Open the case lid and hold the small button on the back of the charging case until the status light starts blinking amber, then white. After resetting, put your AirPods in pairing mode and attempt to connect them to your MacBook again.

6. Check Compatability

If your AirPods are still not able to connect, check if they are compatible. AirPods work best with macOS 10.14.4 or later versions. If your MacBook’s software is outdated, consider updating it to the latest version. Apple frequently releases macOS updates to improve device compatibility and fix bugs.

To check for updates, click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen. Go to System Settings > General > Software Update. If there’s a macOS update available, download and install it before proceeding further.

7. Contact Apple Support

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and still can’t pair AirPods to your MacBook, it’s best to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance. They can provide personalized help and guide you through more advanced troubleshooting steps if needed.

The Bottom Line

Remember, while connecting AirPods to a MacBook and another device is usually a smooth process, occasional hiccups can occur. So don’t start looking for a new laptop yet. It is best to do your research and read reviews from trustworthy sources. Long patience and persistence in troubleshooting can often lead to a successful connection, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of wireless audio on your MacBook. Happy listening!

FAQs

How to Factory Reset AirPods and AirPods Pro?

To reset your AirPods, put both of them in their charging case while keeping the lid open. Press and hold the connect button (located at the back of the case) for about 15 seconds, until the status light flashes amber, then white.

How to Forget Device on MacBook Air and MacBook Pro?

To forget device on MacBook, click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen. Go to System Settings > Bluetooth. Click the “More Info button (i)” next to your AirPods. Click “Forget This Device” and confirm.

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Article by Jayson
Hey! I’m Jayson, I help find solutions to any tech-related challenge. I specialize in SCM, WMS Software, and Data Analysis.

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