To connect AirPods to a laptop, enable Bluetooth on the computer, put the AirPods into pairing mode, and select them from the available devices. The pairing control depends on the AirPods model. Use the correct method before assuming the laptop cannot see them.
Put the AirPods in pairing mode
For AirPods with a charging case, place both earbuds inside and open the lid. Apple specifies a double-tap on the case front for AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3; other earbud models use the setup button on the back. Wait for a flashing white light. AirPods Max uses a separate procedure. See Apple’s pairing instructions for the model-specific details.
Connect and select the audio output
On Windows, open Bluetooth settings and add a Bluetooth device. On a Mac, open Bluetooth in System Settings. Select the AirPods when they appear and complete the connection.
After connecting, select the AirPods as the sound output. In a meeting application, also check the microphone selection; application settings can differ from the computer’s default. Play a short audio sample and use the application’s test-call feature where available.
If they do not appear
Confirm the case and earbuds have charge, keep them near the laptop, and try pairing mode again. Check whether Bluetooth is available and enabled on the computer. If the laptop is managed by your employer, ask IT whether device pairing is restricted before changing drivers or policies.
If a meeting sounds wrong
Check the selected speaker and microphone inside the meeting application. Close and reopen the audio-device selection after reconnecting. Test before the next important call so the first troubleshooting attempt does not happen while customers are waiting.
For wider laptop or peripheral problems, use our repair checklist to describe the behavior to support.