How to Put AirPods in Pairing Mode

Learn how to put AirPods in pairing mode with the case button, connect to devices, troubleshoot pairing issues, and avoid common mistakes.

TechnologyEdited by Pramod Tiwari
2 min read

Quick Answer

To put AirPods in pairing mode, place both AirPods in the case, open the lid, hold the setup button on the case until the status light flashes white, then select AirPods in Bluetooth settings.

What You Need

  • AirPods
  • Charging case
  • Device with Bluetooth
  • Charged battery
  • Bluetooth settings access

Safety Precautions

  • Charge the AirPods and case before pairing.
  • Do not force the case button.
  • Keep AirPods close to the device.
  • Avoid pairing to public or unknown devices.
  • Update your device software if pairing repeatedly fails.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Place AirPods in case

    Put both earbuds in the charging case.

  2. Step 2

    Open the lid

    Keep the lid open and the AirPods inside.

  3. Step 3

    Hold setup button

    Press and hold the button on the back of the case.

  4. Step 4

    Watch for white light

    Release when the status light flashes white.

  5. Step 5

    Open Bluetooth settings

    On your phone, tablet, or computer, open Bluetooth settings.

  6. Step 6

    Select AirPods

    Choose your AirPods from the available devices list.

  7. Step 7

    Confirm connection

    Play audio to verify the pairing worked.

Practical Example

Example: You open the AirPods case, hold the back button until the light flashes white, then select AirPods from your laptop Bluetooth menu.

Common Mistakes

  • Closing the lid too soon
  • Holding the wrong area
  • Low battery
  • Bluetooth turned off
  • AirPods still connected to another device
  • Standing too far from the device

Troubleshooting

No white light appears

Charge the case, reseat both AirPods, and try holding the setup button again.

AirPods do not appear

Turn Bluetooth off and on, then keep the case close to the device.

Pairing fails repeatedly

Forget old AirPods entries, restart the device, or reset AirPods if needed.

Only one AirPod connects

Clean contacts gently, charge both earbuds, and reseat them in the case.

FAQs

What does the white flashing light mean?

It means AirPods are ready to pair with a Bluetooth device.

Can AirPods pair with Android?

Yes. Use Bluetooth settings and the setup button on the case.

Do AirPods need to be in the case to pair?

For pairing mode, keep them in the case with the lid open.

What if pairing mode will not start?

Charge the case and earbuds, then try again or reset AirPods.

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