How to Reset AirPods
Learn how to reset AirPods safely with charging case steps, Bluetooth forget device, setup button, AirPods Max reset, mistakes, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Quick Answer
To reset most AirPods or AirPods Pro, put them in the charging case, close the lid for about 30 seconds, forget them in Bluetooth settings, open the lid, hold the setup button until the light flashes amber then white, then reconnect. AirPods Max use the noise control button and Digital Crown reset method.
What You Need
- AirPods and charging case
- iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other Bluetooth device
- Charged battery
- Apple Account if Find My is involved
- Official Apple instructions for your model
Safety Precautions
- Charge AirPods and case before reset.
- Do not use water, sharp tools, or force on the case button.
- Clean contacts gently only with appropriate dry tools.
- Avoid unofficial unlock services.
Privacy and Safety Notes
- Forget AirPods from your devices before giving them away.
- Do not share Apple Account passwords or verification codes.
- Resetting may not remove Find My association in every ownership situation.
- Use official Apple guidance for your exact model.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1
Charge the AirPods
Put AirPods in the case and make sure the case has power.
- Step 2
Close the lid
Close the charging case and wait about 30 seconds.
- Step 3
Forget the device
On your paired device, open Bluetooth settings and choose Forget This Device for the AirPods.
- Step 4
Open the case
Keep the AirPods inside and open the lid.
- Step 5
Hold setup button
Press and hold the setup button until the status light flashes amber, then white.
- Step 6
Reconnect
Bring the AirPods near your device and follow pairing prompts.
- Step 7
Use AirPods Max method if needed
For AirPods Max, follow Apples button combination using the noise control button and Digital Crown.
Practical Example
Example: Your AirPods Pro will not connect reliably, so you forget them in Bluetooth settings, hold the case button until amber then white, and pair them again.
Common Mistakes
- Not forgetting Bluetooth first
- Case battery too low
- Holding the wrong button
- Stopping before the light turns white
- Expecting reset to fix damaged hardware
- Ignoring Find My ownership issues
Troubleshooting
No amber or white light appears
Charge the case, clean contacts gently, and confirm the correct button method.
AirPods will not reconnect
Restart the device, keep AirPods near it, and repeat the pairing process.
One AirPod still does not work
Clean contacts, check battery status, and contact Apple Support if hardware may be faulty.
They are linked to another Apple Account
The previous owner may need to remove them from Find My.
Helpful Internal Links
FAQs
Does resetting AirPods erase settings?
Yes, it resets pairing and some settings, so you need to reconnect.
Why reset AirPods?
Resetting can help with connection, charging, audio, or pairing problems.
How do I reset AirPods Max?
Use the Apple-supported button combination with the noise control button and Digital Crown.
Can reset remove Find My lock?
Not necessarily. Ownership associations may need to be removed by the Apple Account owner.
Related Guides
How to Reset iPad
Learn how to reset iPad safely with restart, erase all content, factory restore, backup, Activation Lock, eSIM notes, mistakes, and troubleshooting.
How to Reset Apple Watch
Learn how to reset Apple Watch from the Watch app or watch settings, unpair, erase content, remove Activation Lock, backup, mistakes, and troubleshooting.
How to Create a Strong Password
Learn how to create a strong password with passphrases, password managers, MFA, unique passwords, mistakes, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Help us improve this guide
Tell us about an outdated instruction, unclear step, broken link or safety concern. Do not include passwords, account numbers, medical records or other sensitive information.