How to Connect a New AirPod to Your AirPods Case & Device

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Step-by-step methods for AirPods 1, 2, 3, 4, and Pro

Written by Hannah Dillon

Last Updated: July 2, 2025 Fact Checked

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• Connecting a New AirPod 1, 2, 3, or Pro
|
• Connecting a New AirPod 4 (All Models)
|
• Troubleshooting
|
• FAQ
|
• Video

|Show more |Show less

Did you get a replacement earbud or new case for your AirPods? You'll have to set up the new AirPod or case so you can use it normally. It isn't a difficult process, and this wikiHow article will show you how.

How to Connect a New AirPod

Remove your AirPods from your Bluetooth devices before starting. Place both AirPods into their case and shut the lid. Charge the AirPods for at least 20 minutes, then open the lid to ensure the status light is flashing white. Close the lid and tap Connect on your device to connect your AirPods.

Steps

Section 1 of 4:

Connecting a New AirPod 1, 2, 3, or Pro

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1. 
   1
   Remove your AirPods from your Bluetooth devices. Open your Settings app and tap Bluetooth. If your AirPods aren't listed under "My Devices," skip to the next step. If they're still listed under "My Devices," do the following:

   • Tap the "i" button next to your AirPods under "My Devices."
   • Tap Forget this device and confirm your selection.
2. 
   2
   Place your AirPods in the charging case and shut the lid. Make sure both AirPods are settled securely in their spot so they connect to the case properly.
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3. 
   3
   Plug your AirPods into a power cable. Let the AirPods and case charge for at least 20 minutes.
4. 
   4
   Open the lid after charging. Check the status light. If the light is flashing white, close the lid and skip ahead to the next step. If the light isn't flashing at all, follow these steps:

   • Leave the lid of the case open.
   • Press and hold the button on the back of the case for 15 seconds. The status light will flash amber, then white.
     • If the status light still doesn't flash white, try resetting your AirPods by closing the lid for 20 seconds. Then, open the lid and press and hold the button on the back of the case for 15 seconds.
5. 
   5
   Go to your device's Home Screen and tap Connect. Then, tap Done. Your AirPods are now connected to their case and your device.
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Section 2 of 4:

Connecting a New AirPod 4 (All Models)

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1. 
   1
   Remove your AirPods from your Bluetooth devices. Open your Settings app and tap Bluetooth. If your AirPods aren't listed under "My Devices," skip to the next step. If they're still listed under "My Devices," do the following:

   • Tap the "i" button next to your AirPods under "My Devices."
   • Tap Forget this device and confirm your selection.
2. 
   2
   Place your AirPods in the charging case and shut the lid. Make sure both AirPods are settled securely in their spot so they connect to the case properly.
3. 
   3
   Plug your AirPods into a power cable. Let the AirPods and case charge for at least 20 minutes.
4. 
   4
   Open the lid after charging. Check the status light. If the light is flashing white, close the lid and skip ahead to the next step. If the light isn't flashing at all, follow these steps:

   • Leave the lid of the case open.
   • Double-tap the front of the case while the status light is still illuminated.
   • Double-tap the front of the case again when the status light starts to blink white.
   • Double-tap the front of the case again when the status light starts to blink faster. The status light should then flash amber, then white.
     • If the status light still doesn't flash white, try resetting your AirPods by closing the lid for 20 seconds. Then, open the lid and double-tap on the front of the case three times.
5. 
   5
   Go to your device's Home Screen and tap Connect. Then, tap Done. Your AirPods are now connected to their case and your device.
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Section 3 of 4:

Troubleshooting

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1. 
   1
   Why am I getting an alert that says "AirPods Mismatch?" If you're getting an "AirPods Mismatch" message, you may not have properly paired your new AirPod to your case. Make sure you're fully removing your current AirPods from your Bluetooth devices on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod before continuing. If you're still getting the "AirPods Mismatch" message, you may need to contact Apple Support for one-on-one help with a specialist.
2. 
   2
   Why can't I hear anything out of my new AirPod? Make sure the AirPod is sufficiently charged. Let your new AirPod charge in the case for at least 20 minutes before attempting to pair it. If your AirPods are not charging, the case could also need to be charged. If this is the case, plug your AirPods case into a power cable while you allow the AirPods to charge.
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Section 4 of 4:

FAQ

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1. 1
   Can I pair two AirPods from different generations to the same case? No, you cannot mix two different AirPods generations or models together. When purchasing a replacement AirPod, make sure it matches the generation and/or model of your current AirPods. For example, if you have a pair of AirPods 2, you must get another AirPods 2 if one of your AirPods breaks or goes missing.
2. 2
   How do I replace a missing AirPod? If you need to get a replacement AirPod, you can contact Apple by going to their support page for replacing lost AirPods. You can either order a replacement that will be sent via the mail, or you can schedule a visit at an Apple Store to get a replacement.
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