[2024 Updated] How to Fix AirPods Won’t Connect to iPhone

AirPods have revolutionized the way we listen to music, take calls, and interact with our devices. However, there are times when even these sophisticated wireless earbuds encounter connectivity issues. If you find yourself in a situation where your AirPods won't connect to your iPhone, don't worry – you're not alone.

In this article, we'll explore the reasons why your AirPods might not be connecting and provide you with effective solutions to fix AirPods won’t connect seamlessly.

Why AirPods won’t connect to iPhone?

Before diving into the solutions, let's understand some common reasons why your AirPods might be refusing to connect:
⛔ Bluetooth Interference: Bluetooth devices can experience interference from other devices or wireless signals, leading to connection problems.
⛔ Low Battery: If the battery level of your AirPods is critically low, they might not connect to your iPhone.
⛔ Outdated Firmware: Outdated firmware on your AirPods can cause compatibility issues with your iPhone.
⛔ Software Glitches: Temporary software glitches on your iPhone can also affect the connection with your AirPods.
⛔ Improper Pairing: If your AirPods are not properly paired or connected to your iPhone, they won't establish a connection.

Fixes to AirPods won’t connect

Now, let's explore effective solutions to troubleshoot and resolve the issue of AirPods not connecting to your iPhone. Follow the tips one after another to fix, AirPods won’t connect to iPhone/iPad until your issue solved.

Tip 1. Basic requirements to using AirPods

Before delving into the fixes, it's essential to ensure that you're meeting the basic requirements for using AirPods:
• Compatible Devices: AirPods are designed to work seamlessly with Apple devices, primarily iPhones 8 and later, iPads (6th/Pro/mini 5th/ Air 3rd), and iPod touch 7th and later.
• iOS Compatibility: Ensure that your iPhone is running a compatible version of iOS (iOS 10.2 or later) to support the AirPods' features.
• Bluetooth Enabled: Make sure that Bluetooth is turned on both on your iPhone and your AirPods.
• Charging: Ensure that your AirPods are sufficiently charged. Low battery levels can hinder connectivity.

Tip 2. Check battery levels

If your AirPods cannot connect to your iPhone, it may be necessary to check the battery levels of your AirPods and the charging case. You can follow the steps below to make it.

Place your AirPods in the charging case > Open the lid near your iPhone > A popup should appear displaying the battery levels of your AirPods and the charge case.

Tip 3. Make sure AirPods in the range of iPhone

The connection between your AirPods and your iPhone or iPad relies on Bluetooth technology and operates within a specific range. To verify and manage this connection, follow these steps:

Step 1. Swipe upwards from the bottom of your Home screen to access the control center.

Step 2. Swipe from right to left to access the audio interface within the control center.

Step 3. Locate and tap the audio output button. Check if your AirPods are listed among the available options.

If your AirPods are not visible in this list, it indicates that they are likely out of the designated range for Bluetooth connectivity.

Tip 4. Force restart iPhone

Force restarting iPhone can fix deeper problems and refresh all software processes. So, to fix AirPods won’t connect to iPhone, try force restarting your iPhone.

To force restart iPhone with Face ID, quickly press and release the Volume Up button > Quickly press and release the Volume Down button. Finally, press and hold the Side button. When the Apple logo appears, release the button.

Tip 5. Forget and re-pair AirPods

If you are still experiencing issue - AirPods not connecting to iPhone, here are how to fix AirPods not connecting by forgetting and re-pairing AirPods.

Step 1. Forget AirPods from iPhone
• Go to your iPhone's Settings > Scroll down and tap on Bluetooth.

• Under the "My Devices" section, you should see your AirPods listed. Tap the "i" icon next to your AirPods.

• On the AirPods settings page, tap on Forget This Device. Confirm the action if prompted.

Step 2. Reset Your AirPods
Place both AirPods in the charging case and close the lid. Wait for about 15-20 seconds.

Open the lid of the charging case and locate the small setup button on the back of the case.

Press and hold the setup button until the status light on the case starts flashing white.

Step 3. Re-Pair AirPods with iPhone
• Keep AirPods case open (flashing white light).

• On iPhone, tap Connect when AirPods setup animation appears.

• Follow on-screen instructions to complete pairing.

Tip 6. Reset all settings

To fix AirPods won’t connect, you can also try reset all settings on your iPhone. It won’t delete any data on your iPhone, but revert settings to their default configurations. Here are how to fix AirPods connection failed by resetting all settings.

Go to the Settings app on iPhone > General > Choose Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset. Choose Reset All Settings and enter the lock screen password to confirm the operation.

Tip 7. Update iOS to the latest version

It's crucial to keep your iOS system up to date. Apple consistently includes bug fixes and patches in each new version, which can address various issues and glitches.

Go to the Settings app on your iPhone > General > Software Update. If there is a new iOS version, download and install it.

Conclusion

AirPods have undoubtedly transformed the way we enjoy audio and communication, but occasional connectivity issues can arise. The solutions in this guide encompass a range of possible solutions. With these fixes at your disposal, you'll be back to enjoying your favorite music and calls with your AirPods in no time.

By the way, if you want to connect two AirPods to one iPhone, you can click the link to complete it. If this guide helps you, share it with others.