How to connect your AirPods to a computer or laptop

So you don’t really know how to connect your AirPods to your computer. Things happen! This is not a big deal, because the problem is quite simple to fix. We have a brief overview for you, but there is also a useful Apple page itself which can point you in the right direction for any […]

  Technology   May 14, 2024   36  Add to Reading List
How to connect your AirPods to a computer or laptop

So you don’t really know how to connect your AirPods to your computer. Things happen! This is not a big deal, because the problem is quite simple to fix.

We have a brief overview for you, but there is also a useful Apple page itself which can point you in the right direction for any computer model.

SEE ALSO:

Yes, you can stick your AirPods to your MacBook screen, if you absolutely have to

Now, let’s start at the beginning. The process of pairing your AirPods (2nd and 3rd generation) or AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation) via Bluetooth may be different depending on the type of computer you are using. Let’s start with a Mac.

how to connect AirPods to a Mac

You first want to make sure your Mac’s operating system is up to date. To do this, click the Apple icon in the upper left corner of your desktop screen and click “About This Mac.” A screen will appear and you can click on “Software Update”.

It is always better to update to the latest version i.e. macOS Sonoma 14.4.1. According to Apple, 2nd generation AirPods require macOS Mojave 10.14.4 or later (3rd generation requires macOS Monterey or later) and AirPods Pro require Catalina 10.15.1 or later (2nd generation requires the latest version, Sonoma ).

Crushable speed of light

Now that you’re assured your Mac is up to date, follow these simple steps to connect your AirPods.

Step 1: Open System Preferences.

If you can’t find it, it’s the icon on your desktop that looks like a gear. You can also search System Preferences using Spotlight (the magnifying glass in the upper right corner of your desktop.)

Step 2: Select Bluetooth.

I happen to use a Mac, so here’s what I’m talking about. This is the icon you are looking for.

The Bluetooth icon is easy to find in System Preferences.
Credit: Screenshot: apple/system preferences

Step 3: Place both AirPods into the case and open the cover.

Quite simple.

Step 4: Hold the button on the back of the AirPod case.

You should see the light start to flash white. Once it’s done, you can release the button.

Step 5: Wait for your AirPods to appear on your devices, then click Connect.

Presto. That should be it. Note: If you don’t see your AirPods, make sure Bluetooth is turned on, then restart the process.

Screenshot of a Mac's Bluetooth preferences window.

Connecting AirPods to your Mac is simple.
Credit: Screenshot: Apple

Now what if you don’t do it use a Mac? Well, the process should be pretty much exactly the same. Instead.

how to Connect AirPods to a Windows PC or Laptop

The only thing that will really change is how you access the Bluetooth page. Here are a few different ways to accomplish this:

What do you need

  • AirPods

  • Windows PC or laptop

Step 1: On a PC, open Settings from your Start menu.

Step 2: Select devices, go to Bluetooth and other devices, and tap the plus sign where it says “Add Bluetooth or other device”.

Step 3: Open the AirPods case cover, hold the button and select your AirPods once they appear on the screen.

Step 4: The headphones should connect, then you will click “Done”.

Not all PCs come with Bluetooth, especially desktop computers. However, if you own a laptop, chances are your PC has Bluetooth capabilities.

That’s it for you guys. Enjoy your brave new world where your AirPods pair seamlessly with your computer.

In the meantime, if you want to properly clean your AirPods, reset them, or even stick them to your MacBook screen, we’ve got you covered.

Teknory