How to connect Apple AirPods to a laptop

AIRPODS are a great gadget for Apple devices – but they’ll work with your Windows laptop too.

You’re in luck if you’ve got a PC and a pair of Apple’s wireless earbuds.

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Can Apple AirPods be used with my Android or Windows PC?

Apple recently launched their newest version of the AirPods, the Pro Generation 2, which boast better noise cancellation, and improved sound which promises to take you far away from your troubles.

But what if you don’t have an iPhone, or your work computer is a Windows PC?

You’re in luck; the cult-favorite AirPods models were created to work with Bluetooth, which means you can connect them to any source of sound that also uses Bluetooth.

We’ll cover below how to connect your AirPods to a PC or a Mac and seamlessly switch between two devices.

How to use AirPods with a Windows laptop

Your AirPods work best with Apple products – there’s no question.

But you can still use them as a Bluetooth headset with non-Apple devices.

You’ll be restricted with some features; for example, Siri won’t work.

But you can still listen to music or take calls.

Here’s how:

1. Go to the Bluetooth settings on your device and make sure it’s on
2. Open your AirPods case with the earbuds still inside
3. Press and hold the button on the back of the AirPods case until the light flashes white
4. Choose your AirPods once they appear in the list of Bluetooth devices

You may find you have different features depending on what Bluetooth device you’ve connected to.

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How to use AirPods with a Mac computer

First, you’ll want to ensure that your Mac is up to date on its operating system — the latest AirPods, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), require macOS Ventura.

Now, if you already have your AirPods set up on your iPhone and share an iCloud ID across your devices, your AirPods may be ready to use immediately.

To test them, place your AirPods in your ears and click the Bluetooth menu, then select your AirPods from the list.

If you are on a computer that isn’t logged into your iCloud ID, here’s what you should do to get them connected:

1. Select System Preferences from the Apple Menu at the top
2. Click on Bluetooth and ensure it’s on
3. Put both AirPods in the charging case and open the lid
4. Press and hold the button on the back of the case until the white light flashes
5. Select your AirPods in the Devices list, then click Connect.

How to switch your AirPods from your Mac computer or iPad to your iPhone

They should automatically sync on any up-to-date version of your computer, iPad, and iPhone.

If for some reason, it doesn’t switch over when you pick up your phone to play music, or you hit the FaceTime button on your iPad, you can troubleshoot below.

First, check the compatibility of your devices.

According to Apple Support: “Your AirPods (2nd and 3rd generation) and your AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation) can switch automatically between your Mac with macOS Big Sur, iPhone with iOS 14, and iPad with iPadOS 14 or later.”

If these are all up to date, then make sure that you are signed in using the same Apple ID (with two-factor authentication on).

This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk