8 Easy Solutions to Fix Airpods Not Connecting to iPhone

Learn why you can't connect your AirPods and how to fix it

Co-authored by Bryzz Tortello and Rain Kengly

Last Updated: July 3, 2025 Fact Checked

If your AirPods don't automatically connect to your iPhone or iPad, it could be due to low charge or software bugs. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to troubleshoot your AirPods or AirPods Pro. Here's what to do when your AirPods are not connecting to your iPhone.

Quick Ways to Get Your AirPods to Connect

If your AirPods won't connect to your iPhone, make sure your Bluetooth is enabled and your device is updated. Charge your AirPods in their case fully. You can reset the AirPods by holding the button on the back for at least 15 seconds.

1

Enable Bluetooth.

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Open the Settings app and tap Bluetooth. Make sure the toggle is in the on position (green).^{[1]
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2

Update your device.

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Make sure your iPhone or iPad is updated. Software updates include the latest bug fixes, so be sure your device is up-to-date. Do the following:^{[2]
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- Go to Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.

3

Charge your AirPods fully.

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For best results, charge the case simultaneously, and let it charge for at least an hour. A low battery can prevent your AirPods from connecting successfully.^{[3]
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4

Select the AirPods as your audio device.

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Open the Control Center and tap the media square in the top-right corner. You should see the AirPods icon.

5

Disable other Bluetooth devices.

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If you have multiple devices synced to your iPhone or iPad, they may try to connect at the same time as your AirPods. Turn off any other devices or unpair them from your device temporarily.

6

Restart your devices.

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Whether you're trying to listen to your AirPods on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, restart your device. This may help with connectivity issues on your device's end.^{[4]
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7

Reset your AirPods.

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Factory reset the AirPods. Put the AirPods back in the charging case and close the lid. Wait 30 seconds, and then put them in your ear.^{[5]
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- If the AirPods still aren't connected, put them back in the case, but leave the lid open. Press and hold the button on the back of the case for 15 seconds. The light indicator should turn amber and then white.

8

Contact Apple Support.

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If the AirPods still won't connect, contact Apple for help. This may be a hardware issue, and you may still be covered by Apple's warranty.^{[7]
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- You can contact Apple on their website at https://getsupport.apple.com/.