While AirPods are designed to readily connect with Apple Devices and work flawlessly, it is not uncommon to find users reporting the problem of AirPods not connecting to iPhone.
This can happen due to Apple ID not being recognized by iCloud, AirPods not being sufficiently charged, Bluetooth connectivity issues, Incorrect Audio Settings, iOS version being incompatible with AirPods and other reasons.
AirPods Not Connecting to iPhone or iPad
If AirPods are getting disconnected or not connecting to iPhone, you should be able to fix the problem using the following steps.
1. Make Sure AirPods Are Sufficiently Charged
As mentioned above, the problem of AirPods not connecting to iPhone could be due to AirPods not being sufficiently charged or being out of power.
Hence, make sure that AirPods are sufficiently charged, before connecting them to iPhone.
2. Restart iPhone
Sometimes, the problem is due to stuck programs and processes interfering with proper functioning of Audio devices. In most cases, this can be fixed by restarting iPhone.
1. Go to Settings > General > scroll down to bottom and tap on Shut Down.
2. On the next screen, use the Slide to power off button to power OFF your iPhone.
3. Wait for 60 seconds and restart iPhone by pressing the Power button.
3. Restart Bluetooth
In most cases, Bluetooth connectivity issues can be fixed by restarting Bluetooth.
1. Open Settings > tap on Bluetooth.
2. On the next screen, move the toggle next Bluetooth to OFF position.
3. Wait for 30 seconds and toggle ON Bluetooth.
After restarting Bluetooth, try to connect your AirPods again.
4. Install Updates
Sometimes, the problem is due to a pending update waiting to be installed on your device.
1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
2. On the software update screen, tap on Download and Install (in case a software update is available).
5. Manually Connect AirPods to iPhone
1. Go to Settings > Bluetooth > move the Bluetooth toggle to ON position.
2. After this, place AirPods in the Charging case and bring the case near iPhone (with its lid open).
3. You shoud find AirPods connecting to your iPhone. If not, tap on the Connect option.
4. Next, press and hold the Setup button located at the back of AirPods Charging Case for a few seconds.
Once AirPods are connected, you may need to go through the next 2 to 3 screens, depending on the model of your AirPods.
7. Reset Network Settings
Note down the password for your Wi-Fi network and follow the steps below to Reset Network Settings on your iPhone.
1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
2. On the pop-up, select Reset Network Settings option.
3. On the conformation pop-up, tap on Reset Network Settings to confirm.
After the reset process is completed and iPhone restarts, go to Settings > WiFi > select your WiFi Network and sign-in using the Password for your WiFi Network.