Initial Setup and Pairing

  1. 1

    Open the case next to your iPhone

    Make sure your iPhone is unlocked. Open the AirPods case (do not remove the AirPods yet). A setup animation appears on your iPhone screen within a few seconds.

  2. 2

    Tap Connect

    Tap Connect on the iPhone prompt. AirPods pair automatically and sync to all devices signed into the same Apple ID — Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch. After initial pairing, they reconnect automatically whenever you put them in your ears.

  3. 3

    Pairing with Android or other Bluetooth devices

    Press and hold the circular button on the back of the case until the LED flashes white. The AirPods enter Bluetooth pairing mode. On your Android phone or other device, go to Bluetooth settings and select your AirPods from the list. Basic audio works but Siri and automatic ear detection are iPhone-only features.

Controls

AirPods (1st and 2nd generation — round stem)

  • Double-tap either AirPod: Customisable (play/pause, next track, Siri, or turn off). Set in Settings → Bluetooth → tap the i next to your AirPods.

AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd generation onwards — flat stem)

  • Press stem once: Play/pause or answer a call
  • Press stem twice: Next track
  • Press stem three times: Previous track
  • Press and hold stem: Switch between Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode and Off (AirPods Pro)

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode (AirPods Pro)

  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Blocks external sound using microphones. Best for flights, commutes and focusing.
  • Transparency mode: Lets external sound through while still playing audio — useful for conversations, crossing roads or staying aware of surroundings.
  • Off: No processing — some external sound passes through passively.
Check battery lifeiPhone: open the case next to your iPhone — battery percentages appear on screen. Or ask Siri: "Hey Siri, how is my AirPods battery?" Or check the Batteries widget on your iPhone home screen or Control Centre.

Cleaning AirPods

Use a dry lint-free cloth for the outside. For ear tips on AirPods Pro: pull off the silicone tips and rinse with water only (no soap). Dry thoroughly before reattaching. Clean the speaker mesh with a dry cotton bud — no liquids near the mesh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find My app on iPhone → Devices tab → select your AirPods → Play Sound. This works within Bluetooth range (roughly 10m). If out of range, the map shows the last known location. AirPods Pro and AirPods 3rd gen have Precision Finding which guides you to within centimetres using Ultra Wideband technology when nearby.
Check Settings → Accessibility → Audio/Visual → confirm the balance slider is centred. Clean the ear mesh of the quiet AirPod with a dry cotton bud — earwax buildup is the most common cause. Try resetting the AirPods: hold the case button for 15 seconds until the LED flashes amber then white, then re-pair.