Connecting your AirPods manually involves specific steps depending on your model, primarily putting them into pairing mode so they can be discovered by a device.
Manual Connection Steps for AirPods
To manually connect your AirPods or re-establish a connection, you'll need to interact with the charging case to activate pairing mode. The process varies slightly between the newest models and previous generations.
For AirPods 4 (Both Models)
If you own the latest AirPods 4, the manual connection process is intuitive:
- Double-tap the front of the case until the status light on the case begins to flash white. This indicates your AirPods are ready to pair with a new device or reconnect.
For All Other AirPods Models (Including AirPods Pro)
For AirPods Pro, original AirPods, and other models preceding the AirPods 4, follow these steps to initiate manual connection:
- Press and hold the setup button located on the back of the charging case. Continue holding it until the status light on the case flashes white. This signals that your AirPods are in pairing mode.
Once the status light flashes white, your AirPods are in pairing mode and can be selected from the Bluetooth settings on your desired device (e.g., iPhone, iPad, Mac, Android phone).
