AirPods won't connect to your Mac

Why it happens

AirPods can only play to one device at a time, so they're often still busy with your iPhone or iPad. The saved pairing on the Mac can also go stale after an update. Pairing mode gives your Mac a fresh link to them.

How to fix it

1. Put both AirPods in the case and open the lid right next to your Mac. Leave them in the case for now. AirPods Max have no case to open, so just keep them next to the Mac.

2. Open System Settings and click Bluetooth. Make sure Bluetooth is on, then hold the pointer over your AirPods in the list and click Connect.

   Bluetooth

3. No luck? Keep the lid open and press and hold the button on the back of the case until the light flashes white. On AirPods 4, which have no button, double-tap the front of the case instead. On AirPods Max, press and hold the noise control button for about 5 seconds, until the light flashes white.

4. Watch Nearby Devices in Bluetooth. When your AirPods appear, click Connect next to them and wait a few seconds.

5. Put them in your ears and play something. If the sound still comes from the Mac's speakers, open Sound, then Output, and click your AirPods.

   Sound›Output

Still not fixed?

1. Check they have charge. Close them in the case, plug the case in for 15 minutes, then try again with the lid open.

2. Remove the old pairing. In Bluetooth, Control-click your AirPods, choose Forget, then put them in pairing mode and connect them again as above.

   Bluetooth

3. If they keep jumping to your iPhone, click your AirPods in the System Settings sidebar while they're connected. Next to Connect to This Mac, choose When Last Connected to This Mac. If you don't see it, click Audio & Routing first.

4. Restart your Mac, then open Software Update and install any waiting macOS update. Bluetooth fixes often arrive that way.

   General›Software Update

5. If the AirPods won't connect to your iPhone either, one side stays silent, or the case light never flashes, it's likely a battery or hardware fault. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for a check.