Connect your AirPods to your Mac for the first time

Why it happens

Your Mac can only find AirPods that are ready to pair, and they only do that in pairing mode, shown by a flashing white light. If you already use them with an iPhone signed in to the same Apple Account, they may be in your Mac's Bluetooth list already. Either way, the last step is the Connect button.

How to fix it

1. Put both AirPods in the charging case and open the lid. Keep the case close to your Mac.

2. Hold the button on the back of the case until the status light flashes white. On AirPods 4, which have no button, double-tap the front of the case instead. For AirPods Max, hold the noise control button until the light flashes white.

3. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings and click Bluetooth. Check Bluetooth is switched on, then find your AirPods under Nearby Devices and click Connect.

   Bluetooth

4. Put the AirPods in your ears and play something. If the sound still comes from the Mac, open Sound settings and choose your AirPods under Output.

   Sound›Output

Still not fixed?

1. If they don't appear under Nearby Devices, close the lid, wait 15 seconds, open it and put them in pairing mode again. Keep the Bluetooth settings window open while you do.

2. If the light doesn't come on at all, the case may be flat. Charge it for half an hour and try again.

3. If your AirPods show in the list but won't connect, click the info button next to them, choose Forget This Device, and pair them again from the start.

   Bluetooth

4. On AirPods with a button, a reset often helps: with the lid open, hold the button for about 15 seconds until the light flashes amber, then white. Pair them again afterwards.

5. If the light never flashes white, or only one AirPod plays sound, there may be a fault with the case or an earbud. That's hardware, so contact Apple Support.