AirPods won't connect? How to reset every model (2026)

Affiliate links may be added · AI-assisted, sourced from official pages, not hands-on tested · details

Apple's official reset steps for AirPods 1–3, Pro 1–2, and the newer double-tap method for AirPods 4, AirPods 5 and AirPods Pro 3.

If your AirPods won't pair, keep dropping out, only play in one ear, or won't charge, Apple's first fix is a full reset. The steps depend on your model: older AirPods use the button on the back of the case, and the newest ones use a double-tap on the front.

Before you reset: 3 quick checks

• Put both AirPods in the case and make sure the case has charge (status light on when you open the lid).
• Toggle Bluetooth off and on on your phone or computer.
• Make sure your iPhone or iPad is up to date (Settings > General > Software Update).

Reset AirPods 1, 2, 3, AirPods Pro 1 or Pro 2

1. Put your AirPods in their charging case, close the lid, and wait 30 seconds.
2. On a paired iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth. If your AirPods are listed, tap the More Info button next to them, tap Forget This Device, then confirm.
3. Open the lid of the case.
4. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds.
5. When the status light flashes amber, then white, follow the on-screen steps to reconnect.

Reset AirPods 4, AirPods 5 or AirPods Pro 3

These models don't use the back button. Steps 1–3 are the same as above (case closed 30 seconds, Forget This Device, open the lid), then:

4. Double-tap the front of the case while the status light is on.
5. Double-tap again when the light flashes white.
6. Double-tap a third time when the light flashes faster.
7. When the light flashes amber, then white, follow the on-screen steps to reconnect.

If the light never flashes white

Apple's advice: put the AirPods back in the case, close the lid for 20 seconds, open it, and repeat the reset for your model. Then hold the open case near your device and follow the on-screen steps.

Using AirPods with Windows or Android?

After the reset, put the AirPods in the open case, hold the back setup button (older models) until the light flashes white, then pair them from your device's Bluetooth settings like any other headphones. If your AirPods 4/5/Pro 3 case has no back button, check Apple's pairing guide for your model.

Source: Apple Support: How to reset your AirPods and AirPods Pro (published Oct 13, 2026, checked Oct 24, 2026). We have not hands-on tested every model.

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