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Roofiomew
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Airpods not connecting to Iphone.

AirPods 4 isn't showing the normal pop-up to connect to an iPhone on any iPhone, nor is it giving the option through bluetooth/airplay. Also, I have reset the AirPods multiple times, and they aren't dead.

Posted on Oct 13, 2026 5:27 PM

1 reply

WheelieNick
User level: Level 9 (74,110 points)

Oct 14, 2026 8:03 AM in response to Roofiomew


To fix the connection, your iPhone must be running iOS 18 or later, which is the minimum system requirement to recognize and display the setup pop-up for the AirPods 4.


Because the AirPods 4 case has no physical button on the back, traditional reset steps do not work. Use this specific sequence to force a hardware pairing connection:


After this try this

  1. Place both AirPods in the case and keep the lid open.
  2. Double-tap the front area of the case (right below the LED light).
  3. The light should begin flashing white. This confirms they are actively broadcasting a Bluetooth signal. Bring the open case close to your iPhone to see if the pop-up appears. 


If this is not working please restart your iPhone

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256375750