Despite being compatible with Windows laptops and PCs, AirPods require additional technical knowledge to connect. The procedure is frequently made more difficult for Windows users by compatibility issues and ambiguous directions.
Fortunately, once you’re familiar with the procedures, things become simpler. We offer a comprehensive tutorial with troubleshooting advice on connecting AirPods to a PC. Let’s start now!
How to Connect AirPods to a Windows Laptop
Congratulations on getting your laptop and AirPods connected! It’s time to connect the two items at this point. Here is how to go about it:
- Check the Bluetooth settings on your laptop. The “Settings” or “Control Panel” menu, depending on your operating system, is often where you may find Bluetooth options.
- The Bluetooth settings screen will appear. Simply click “Add Bluetooth or another device.” The process of hunting for currently in-use Bluetooth devices will then begin.
- Choose “Bluetooth” from the available choices. By doing this, you’ll be able to use your laptop to look for Bluetooth devices precisely.
- Your laptop will start looking for Bluetooth devices that are accessible. Watch the display and wait for your AirPods to show up in the list of compatible devices.
- Take your AirPods from the list of compatible devices and connect them. There could be a PIN or confirmation needed for your laptop and AirPods.
- Your laptop may be used with your AirPods after the connection has been made. Like any other Bluetooth device, you may utilize the functions and listen to audio.
How to link AirPods to a Windows PC
The AirPods employ Bluetooth, just like any other truly wireless earphones. As a result, they are compatible with Bluetooth-enabled non-Apple devices. Following completion of that, follow these steps to connect your Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer to AirPods, AirPods Max, or AirPods Pro:
- Place your AirPods in the case to check their battery level. They still have juice if the status light is orange or green, in which case you are fine to go.
- The AirPods are in pairing mode when the status light flashes orange and white. To do this, hold down the setup button on the back of the case for a long time.
- Open the Settings menu from your computer’s Windows Start menu, which is located in the lower-left corner of the screen.
- Then click Bluetooth & devices.
- Bluetooth should be switched on, so check.
- Just click Add Device.
- You’ll then be directed to the Add a Device tab. Tap Bluetooth when you get there.
- A list of Bluetooth devices that are nearby will be shown. For them to connect to your PC, choose your AirPods from the list.
- A notice confirming a successful connection of your AirPods will appear when you click Done.
- Now that they are out of the case, you may use your AirPods as you choose.
Troubleshooting when your AirPods won’t connect to your PC/Laptop
Enable Bluetooth: Check to see if your PC or laptop, as well as your AirPods, are Bluetooth-enabled. If the Bluetooth icon is disabled, look for it in the system settings or taskbar/notification area and turn it on.
Reset AirPods: Place your AirPods in the charging case, open the lid, then press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the LED indicator lights amber to reset them if they have already been linked with another device. After that, try connecting them to your laptop or PC once more.
Update drivers: Check to see if the Bluetooth drivers on your computer or laptop are current. To find updated drivers, go to the manufacturer’s website for your particular computer model. Updated Bluetooth driver software should be downloaded and installed. After restarting your computer, try connecting your AirPods once again.
Pair with another device: Test your AirPods with a different compatible gadget, such as a tablet or smartphone. If they can connect to another device without problems, your PC or laptop may be the source of the problem.
Check compatibility: Check to see if Bluetooth connection and AirPod compatibility are supported by your computer or laptop. Some older devices might not have Bluetooth or might just have a few Bluetooth features.
Forget and re-pair AirPods: On your computer or laptop, navigate to the Bluetooth settings and search for the entry for your AirPods. You can choose to forget about it or take away the gadget by clicking on it. Open the charging case’s cover, press and hold the setup button until the LED starts to flash white, and your AirPods will then enter pairing mode. From there, you may attempt connecting them once more.
Do I have to take my AirPods out of one device before putting them in another one, such as a laptop?
No, AirPods allow for concurrent communication with many devices that share the same iCloud account. They may be connected to another device without having to be taken off of one first. However, if you experience connectivity problems, you could try momentarily severing them from other gadgets.
Can I use AirPods with a Mac or MacBook?
Yes, AirPods are made to work with all Apple products, including MacBooks and iMacs, without any issues. To connect AirPods to a Mac, simply follow the above-outlined instructions. On the other hand, if you have an iCloud account and your AirPods are already linked to an iPhone with the same iCloud account, they could automatically connect to your Mac when you’re close to it.
Do AirPods work with Windows laptops?
Yes, an AirPods connection to a Windows laptop is possible. The stages stated before are comparable to the process. To connect your AirPods, open the Bluetooth settings on your Windows laptop and follow the on-screen instructions.
What specifications must be met in order to connect AirPods to a laptop?
Bluetooth support ought to be available on your laptop. Although most contemporary laptops come equipped with Bluetooth, if yours doesn’t, you could require an extra Bluetooth adapter.