Troubleshooting AirPods Connection Issues with Windows PC

by

As pairing AirPods with an Apple computer is usually a simple process, users should anticipate a similar level of simplicity when pairing with a Windows computer or a laptop such as Microsoft Surface. Although Windows laptops and PCs can be used with AirPods, connecting the devices requires additional knowledge. For Windows users, compatibility issues and ambiguous instructions frequently make the process more difficult. The AirPods use Bluetooth, just like any other true wireless earbuds. They are therefore compatible with non-Apple gadgets that have a Bluetooth module.

Here’s how to pair your Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer with AirPods, AirPods Max, or AirPods Pro:

  1. Put your AirPods in the case to see how much battery life they have left. You can proceed if the status light is orange or green, which indicates that they still have juice.

  2. Press and hold the setup button located at the back of the case to enter pairing mode for the AirPods. This will cause the status light to flash orange and then white.

  3. Navigate to SETTINGS from the Windows Start Menu by opening it on your computer.

  4. Click on Devices & Bluetooth.

  5. Make sure the Bluetooth toggle is turned on.

  6. Tap "ADD DEVICE."

  7. You’ll reach the ADD A DEVICE tab as a result. When you get there, select BLUETOOTH.

  8. A list of nearby Bluetooth devices will appear. To pair your AirPods with your PC, choose them from the list.

  9. After you click DONE, a message stating that your AirPods have successfully connected will appear.

Keep in mind that using your AirPods with a Windows laptop or PC may prevent you from using some of their features. Occasionally, Apple devices such as iPhones may not be able to connect to AirPods. It follows that you shouldn’t be surprised if you occasionally run into problems connecting them to a Windows computer.

Fear not—below is a compilation of the most effective solutions for resolving frequent problems with the connection between Windows computers and AirPods.

  1. Unplug the AirPods from your Apple devices.

  2. Use Windows’ troubleshooter to perform manual troubleshooting.

Apple devices in the vicinity of the AirPods case automatically detect and connect to the signal when you open the case’s lid. This will stop Bluetooth pairing from starting on your Windows PC because it is a first-come, first-served system.

One of the built-in features of Windows is the troubleshooter, which can assist you in identifying possible causes of problems with Bluetooth connectivity. This is your best chance to figure out the issue if you’re not sure why your AirPods aren’t connecting to Windows.

If there are any hardware or software issues preventing your AirPods from connecting to your computer correctly, Windows should be able to identify them. However, if not, you can attempt the following manual troubleshooting techniques:

  • Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on your PC. Under SETTINGS > BLUETOOTH & DEVICES > BLUETOOTH, you can verify this.

  • Make sure your AirPods are fully charged and that the most recent firmware has been installed.

  • Verify that the airplane mode is turned on. To confirm this, navigate to SETTINGS > NETWORK & INTERNET > AIRPLANE MODE.

  • Switch Bluetooth on and off once more. Select Bluetooth and other devices under Settings > Devices. TURN OFF THE SLIDER. After a short while, turn it back on.

  • Use this guide to update the Bluetooth driver on your PC.

Make sure your headphones are clear of debris and build-up of earwax before attempting any of these troubleshooting techniques to avoid problems when connecting them to your Windows computer.

When all else fails, testing your AirPods with different devices can help you narrow down the problem. If they function, your laptop or PC is the issue. However, if they don’t, your AirPods may have more serious problems. If so, get in touch with Apple support to find out if you can get a replacement and are still covered by warranty.

When you’re done using your AirPods, you can quickly unplug them from other devices, just like you would with any other Bluetooth device.

Unplugging AirPods from a Windows Computer

Here’s how to unplug your AirPods from a Windows computer:

You should be able to talk and listen using your AirPods as a headset as soon as you pair them with your Windows computer. When connected to a PC, some users have discovered that they are unable to use the microphone. This can be annoying, particularly if you use your AirPods for online meetings at work. Fortunately, this usually occurs when the computer isn’t very intuitive, and you can resolve the issue by adjusting the SOUND SETTINGS. You ought to be using AirPods and your Windows PC to conduct an online meeting or listen to your favorite music by now.

While most Bluetooth-enabled devices can connect to AirPods, some features may need to be disabled. This is because they are optimized for use with Apple products.

Did you encounter any major problems when attempting to connect your Windows PC to your AirPods? Or is there a step you believe we overlooked? Tell us in the comments below!

Pairing AirPods with Mac

Pair your AirPods with your Mac if they don’t show up in Control Center:

  1. Select System Preferences from the Apple menu  on your Mac, then select Bluetooth.

  2. Verify that Bluetooth is turned on.

  3. After placing both AirPods inside the charging case, lift the lid.

  4. Hold down the setup button located on the case’s back until the white status light flashes.

  5. When your AirPods appear in the list of nearby devices, click Connect.

If your Mac speakers are still producing sound, click Control Center from the menu bar and confirm that your AirPods are set as the output device.

Connecting AirPods Pro to Windows 11

Thankfully, all generations of the AirPods Pro are compatible with computers that are not Apple products. All you need to do is follow the comprehensive instructions we’ve provided below to connect them to a Windows 11 computer.

  1. Open the SETTINGS application on your Windows 11 desktop.

  2. In the sidebar, tap on BLUETOOTH & DEVICES.

  3. Select "ADD DEVICE."

  4. Select BLUETOOTH under the "ADD A DEVICE" menu.

Troubleshooting AirPods Connection with HP Laptop

AirPods connect via Bluetooth, so all you have to do to pair them with an HP laptop is turn on Bluetooth, put the AirPods in pairing mode, and then connect. Depending on which version of Windows is installed on your HP laptop, the steps will vary slightly. If your AirPods aren’t connecting, there might be a problem with your AirPods or with Bluetooth on your laptop.

  • NO BLUETOOTH AVAILABLE: Verify that your laptop is set up for Bluetooth. Try shutting down your AirPods’ case and turning on Bluetooth again afterward. Next, unscrew the AirPods, open the case, and check to see if they connect.

  • BLUETOOTH DRIVER OUT OF DATE: You might experience issues connecting to AirPods if your Bluetooth driver is out of date. Update your drivers and give it another go.

  • AIRPODS NOT IN PAIRING MODE: In order for you to establish the initial connection, the white light on the case of your AirPods must be flashing. You can attempt several methods to resolve the issue of your AirPods not connecting. Try again after your AirPods are in pairing mode.

  • AIRPODS CONNECTED BUT NOT ENABLED: It’s possible that although your AirPods are linked, they’re not set as the audio output device. Try opening the Sound Control Panel and setting HEADPHONES (AIRPODS PRO STEREO) as the default audio device if the above instructions didn’t work.