When to Reset AirPods

  • AirPods not connecting or connecting to the wrong device
  • One AirPod not working or significantly quieter than the other
  • Audio quality issues or cutting out
  • Giving AirPods to someone else
  • Pairing with a new phone

How to Reset AirPods and AirPods Pro

  1. 1

    Put both AirPods in the case and close the lid

    Make sure both AirPods are inside the case. Close the lid and wait 30 seconds.

  2. 2

    Open the lid

    Open the charging case lid — keep it open for the rest of the process.

  3. 3

    Press and hold the button on the back of the case

    On the back of the case there is a small circular button. Press and hold it for about 15 seconds. Watch the status light on the front of the case.

  4. 4

    Wait for amber then white flash

    The light flashes amber a few times, then flashes white. When you see the white flash, release the button. The AirPods are now reset and removed from your Apple account.

  5. 5

    Re-pair with your iPhone

    Hold the open case close to your iPhone. A pairing animation appears on your iPhone screen. Tap Connect. Your AirPods re-pair and sync across all devices signed in to your Apple ID.

How to Reset AirPods Max

  1. 6

    Press and hold both the noise control button and Digital Crown

    Press and hold both simultaneously for about 15 seconds until the LED flashes amber. Release. The AirPods Max are reset.

First try a simple reconnectBefore a full reset, try: go to Settings → Bluetooth → tap the i next to your AirPods → Forget This Device. Then re-pair normally by holding the case near your phone. This fixes most connection issues without a full reset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — a factory reset clears all custom settings including noise control preferences, ear tip fit test results and any custom name. These can be reconfigured after re-pairing in Settings → Bluetooth → tap the i next to your AirPods.
Ensure your iPhone software is up to date. Try restarting your iPhone. Check the AirPods have charge. If one AirPod still does not work after a reset, it may have a hardware fault — contact Apple Support for a replacement.