Learn how to easily reset your Apple AirPods and AirPods Pro for better performance. Follow our step-by-step guide for iPhones, iPads, Windows, Android, and Macs. Fix connectivity and charging issues in no time!
Apple's AirPods are popular and look amazing, but sometimes they can have problems connecting or charging. When that happens, you can fix it with a quick reset. Resetting your AirPods or AirPods Pro is not hard, but if you've never done it before, it might take a moment to figure out. We've put together a simple guide to show you how to reset your Apple AirPods and AirPods Pro using different devices like iPhones, iPads, Windows computers, Android phones, and Macs. Just follow the steps, and you'll be able to fix any issues in no time!
Table Of Contents
Why Should You Reset Your Apple AirPods?
Resetting your AirPods can help resolve various issues. If your AirPods are not charging, a reset often does the trick. Moreover, if you're facing connectivity problems like frequent disconnections or inability to connect with your device, or if you're encountering software glitches, try disconnecting and resetting your AirPods as the first troubleshooting step. However, if resetting doesn't solve the problem, it's advisable to contact Apple for further assistance.
How to Reset Apple AirPods with Charging Case
Before proceeding, make sure your AirPods' charging case has sufficient battery power. Follow these simple steps to reset your Apple AirPods using the charging case:
Step 1: Place your AirPods inside the charging case and close the lid.
Step 2: Wait for about 30 seconds, then open the lid of the charging case and leave it open momentarily.
Step 3: Open your Apple device.
Step 4: Navigate to Settings and scroll down until you see Bluetooth. Tap on it.
Step 5: Look for your AirPods' name in the My Devices list and tap the 'i' icon next to it.
Step 6: A new page will open. Tap on Forget This Device and confirm your selection.
Step 7: Keep the AirPod's charging case open and locate the setup button at the back of the case (or at the front for AirPods Pro or wirelessly charging cases).
Step 8: Press and hold the setup button for approximately 15 to 20 seconds until an amber-colored light appears.
Step 9: With the charging case's lid still open, position the case near your iOS device.
Step 10: Your device will provide instructions on reconnecting your AirPods.
How to Reset AirPods and AirPods Pro using a Windows Laptop/PC
Step 1: Disconnect your AirPods from all devices by placing them in the charging case and closing the lid for about a minute.
Step 2: Take the AirPods out of the charging case.
Step 3: Open the settings menu on your desktop, then navigate to the Bluetooth menu. Alternatively, you can find it by searching for Bluetooth and other device settings from your taskbar.
Step 4: In the Bluetooth menu, find your AirPods in the list of Available Devices. Right-click on their label and select Forget This Device.
Step 5: Press and hold the setup button on the side of the AirPods charging case until the LED changes from white to flashing orange.
Step 6: Pair your AirPods with your PC/Laptop by selecting them from the list of Available Devices and initiating the pairing process.
Step 7: Some devices may ask for a 4-digit password for pairing. The common passwords for AirPods are 1234 or 0000.
How to Factory Reset Apple AirPods and AirPods Pro on Mac
To reset your Apple AirPods or AirPods Pro on your Mac, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Place your AirPods in the charging case and make sure the case is charged.
Step 2: Wait for a while with the AirPods in the case.
Step 3: Open System Preferences on your Mac, go to Bluetooth, and find your Apple AirPods in the list.
Step 4: Click the 'x' button next to your AirPods to remove them as a Bluetooth device.
Step 5: Confirm by selecting Forget Device.
Step 6: Pick up the charging case, but keep the AirPods inside.
Step 7: Press and hold the button on the back of the case until an amber light flashes.
Step 8: Release the button; this indicates the AirPods have been factory reset.
Step 9: Finally, pair your AirPods again with your Mac as usual.
How to Reset AirPods and AirPods Pro on iOS Devices
Step 1: Place both AirPods in the charging case and close the lid to disconnect from all devices. Wait for a minute, then take them out again.
Step 2: Open the Bluetooth menu in Settings on your iOS device. Look for your AirPods in the list of Available Devices.
Step 3: Tap the 'i' logo next to their label and select Forget This Device from the dropdown menu.
Step 4: Hold the setup button on the AirPods case until the LED turns from white to flashing orange.
Step 5: Your AirPods should reappear under Available Devices. They should start pairing automatically. If not, tap on the AirPods label to reconnect to your iOS device.
NB – After resetting the connection, your Apple device won't recognize the AirPods as one of your iCloud-linked devices. If you open the AirPods case near another Apple device, it might start the setup process automatically.
How to Reset Apple AirPods and AirPods Pro on an Android Device
To reset your Apple AirPods or AirPods Pro using an Android device, follow these simple steps:
- Go to the Bluetooth settings in your Android device's Settings menu.
- Remove your AirPods or AirPods Pro from the list of paired devices.
- Return to the charging case and press the button on the back for a few seconds until an amber light flashes.
- Release the button once you see the flashing amber light.
- Finally, go back to your Android device's Settings and re-pair your AirPods or AirPods Pro.
Still Struggling to Reset Your AirPods? Here's What to Do Next!
If you've tried the steps mentioned above for your specific device and are still facing issues with playback or connection, don't worry! There are some simple fixes you can try at home to reset your AirPods:
1. Use Isopropyl-Alcohol: For tougher grime that the light fibers can't eliminate, you can safely use isopropyl-alcohol to clean the charging case.
2. Remove Dirt and Debris: Tiny particles like dirt and dust can sometimes obstruct the charging case's connectivity ports. Use a soft microfiber cloth or cotton earbud to gently clean the inside of the case and remove these obstructions.
If the problems persist, you can contact Apple Support's contact center and talk to a technician. Remember to have your AirPods' serial number handy while contacting them.
Are Stolen AirPods Resettable?
Absolutely, stolen AirPods can be reset. However, it's essential to be cautious because resetting them might lead to tracking issues by the original owner or other privacy concerns, even if you had no idea they were stolen. When AirPods are linked to an Apple ID, they can be located through Find My, which might disclose your location. The good news is that you can reset stolen AirPods to prevent any further tracking.
Can Second-Hand AirPods Be Reset?
Yes, it's possible to reset second-hand AirPods. But there's a catch: Each pair can only connect to one Apple device at a time. This means you need to fully reset and unlink them from the previous owner's Apple ID to use them fully. Here's what you should do:
- Make sure the original owner's Apple ID is disconnected from the AirPods.
- If it's still linked, ask the owner to disconnect it.
- If not, you can still reset the AirPods to prevent tracking.
For older AirPods (1 and 2), resetting is enough to unlink the Apple ID. But newer models have additional features that make changing ownership more challenging.
Bottom Line
Resetting Apple AirPods and AirPods Pro is a simple and effective solution for resolving issues like connectivity and charging problems. Whether using iPhones, iPads, Windows, Android, or Macs, the step-by-step guide provided here allows users to fix issues quickly. Resetting stolen or second-hand AirPods is possible, but precautions must be taken to prevent tracking and ensure proper ownership transfer.