AirPods connect seamlessly to Apple devices; listen to podcasts on your iPhone or watch your latest streaming obsession on the iPad without disturbing anyone around you. But you’re not limited to Apple-made gadgets; thanks to the power of Bluetooth, AirPods can connect to Android devices, as well as your PC.
Whether you need to drown out your co-workers or keep that Zoom call private, here’s how to connect Apple’s true wireless earbuds to PCs and Macs, according to Chloe Albanesius on PCMag.com.
How to connect AirPods to a Windows PC
AirPods connect to your Windows laptop through Bluetooth, so make sure the functionality is turned on. Head to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and flip the switch for Bluetooth to on if it’s not already activated. It’s also accessible via the taskbar, and Windows 11 has a Quick Settings option for Bluetooth.
Up top, click “Add Bluetooth or other device.”
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Select “Bluetooth” from the top of the menu:
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Make sure your AirPods are in their case. Flip it open and press the small white button on the back.
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Wait until the indicator light turns white.
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Your AirPods should show up in the list under “Add a Device.” Select your AirPods.
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When your AirPods connect to your PC, a message will appear to say your AirPods are ready to go.
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Your computer should remember your AirPods. The next time you want to connect, look for them in the list of available Bluetooth devices and click to connect if they don’t do so automatically.
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If your AirPods fail to connect down the line or you want to remove them from your PC manually, click your AirPods in the “Bluetooth & other devices” menu, and select “Remove device.” To add them again, go through the steps above one more time.
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How to connect AirPods to your MacBook
If you have a Mac laptop and your AirPods are already connected on your iPhone, they’ll connect automatically via Apple Handoff. Just open your AirPods case, click the sound control option in the menu bar on the Mac and select AirPods.
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Otherwise, open the AirPods lid, press the white button on the back (or the noise control button on AirPods Max) until the status light flashes white. On your Mac, click the Apple menu > System Preferences > Bluetooth and pick your AirPods from the “Devices” list.