How to Connect AirPods to a Windows 11 PC

Can You Use Apple AirPods with Windows 11?

While Apple AirPods are designed to work seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem, they are ultimately standard Bluetooth audio devices. This means you can pair and use them with any Windows 11 PC, laptop, or tablet that supports Bluetooth connectivity. You will be able to listen to audio and use the built-in microphone for video calls.

However, note that you will lose access to Apple-specific features, such as Siri integration, automatic ear detection (audio pausing when you remove an earbud), and spatial audio customization.

Step 1: Put Your AirPods into Pairing Mode

Before Windows 11 can discover your AirPods, you must place them into pairing mode.

1. Place both AirPods inside their charging case and ensure the lid is open.
2. Locate the small, circular Setup button on the back of the charging case.
3. Press and hold the Setup button until the status light on the front of the case (or inside the case for older models) begins to flash white.
4. Your AirPods are now in Bluetooth pairing mode and are discoverable by your PC.

Note: If you are using AirPods Max, press and hold the noise control button until the status light flashes white.

Step 2: Pair AirPods with Windows 11

With your AirPods flashing white, move to your Windows 11 computer to complete the connection.

1. Click the Start button and select Settings (or press the Windows key + I).
2. In the left-hand sidebar, click on Bluetooth & devices.
3. Ensure the primary Bluetooth toggle switch is turned On.
4. Click the large Add device button.
5. A new window titled "Add a device" will appear. Select the first option: Bluetooth (Mice, keyboards, pens, or audio and other kinds of Bluetooth devices).
6. Windows will begin scanning for available devices. Wait a few moments for your AirPods to appear in the list. They will typically be named "[Your Name]’s AirPods" or simply "AirPods."
7. Click on your AirPods in the list to begin pairing.
8. Once connected, Windows will display a "Your device is ready to go!" message. Click Done.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

If you encounter problems connecting or using your AirPods with Windows 11, try these common fixes:

• No Audio Playing: If your AirPods are connected but you hear no sound, click the speaker icon in your Windows taskbar (bottom right). Click the arrow next to the volume slider and ensure your AirPods are selected as the active playback device.
• Microphone Not Working: Open Settings, go to System, and click Sound. Under the Input section, verify that your AirPods are selected as the default microphone.
• Stuttering or Dropping Connection: Bluetooth interference can cause audio stuttering. Ensure your PC’s Bluetooth drivers are updated via Windows Update. If you are using a desktop PC without built-in Bluetooth, ensure your external Bluetooth adapter is plugged into a high-speed USB port.
• AirPods Won’t Appear in the List: If Windows cannot find your AirPods, close the AirPods case, wait five seconds, open it, and hold the Setup button again until it flashes white. Ensure your iPhone or iPad is not aggressively trying to reconnect to them.

How to Disconnect and Reconnect Later

Once paired, you do not need to go through the setup process every time. When you want to use your AirPods with your PC again, simply put them in your ears and open the Windows Quick Settings menu (click the battery/network/volume icons in the taskbar). Click the arrow next to the Bluetooth icon and select your AirPods to quickly reconnect.