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0871 244 0934AirPods are designed to work perfectly with your Apple devices, offering a straightforward setup that usually takes just a tap. Once connected to your iPhone, your AirPods will automatically link to your iPad, Mac, and other devices signed into the same Apple Account.
This guide covers the simple pairing process and what to do if the connection needs a bit of a nudge. If you don't yet own a pair, browse our full range of Apple AirPods, to find the right model for you.
For a brand new pair of AirPods, the connection process is almost instant:
Check Bluetooth: On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth and make sure the setting is switched on.
Go to Home Screen: Navigate back to the Home Screen of your iPhone.
Position the AirPods: Place both AirPods in their charging case. Open the lid of the case and hold the entire unit right next to your iPhone.
Tap Connect: A setup animation will appear on your iPhone's screen. Tap the Connect button that pops up.
Follow Instructions: Complete any on-screen prompts, such as setting up 'Hey Siri' or configuring Spatial Audio, and then tap Done.
Your AirPods are now paired and ready to play audio from your device.
If the automatic setup screen does not appear, or if you are connecting to a new iPhone, you can use the manual pairing method:
On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
With the AirPods inside the case, open the lid. Press and hold the small setup button on the back of the case (for AirPods Max, use the Noise Control button) until the status light on the case starts flashing white.
Your AirPods will appear in the list of Other Devices. Tap on them to pair.
If your AirPods are not connecting, try these common fixes:
Make sure your iPhone is running the latest iOS software. An outdated operating system can stop new headphones from connecting properly.
Ensure both the AirPods and the charging case have enough battery power. The light on the case should flash green when charged, not amber.
Go to Settings > Bluetooth, turn the switch off, wait five seconds, and turn it back on.
If they appear under My Devices but will not connect, tap the 'i' icon next to your AirPods' name, select Forget This Device, and then repeat the Simple Setup steps above.
As a last step, place the AirPods in the case, close the lid for 15 seconds, and then open it. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber, and then white. Then attempt to re-pair.
If you find that your current device is too old to support the latest iOS version, which may affect connectivity with newer accessories, check out our full range of up-to-date iPhones.
