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zan244
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

How do I connect AirPods to iPhone when they are in pairing mode?

Cannot get air buds to connect to iPhone. Phone simply can’t find them and they are in pairing mode


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Air Buds

Posted on Oct 23, 2026 5:36 AM

2 replies

tillu_code
User level: Level 4 (2,112 points)

Nov 5, 2026 8:26 AM in response to zan244

Try connecting them by hand. Put both AirPods in the case, open the lid, then press and hold the button on the back of the case until the light flashes white. Then on your iPhone go to Settings, then Bluetooth, and pick the AirPods when they show up. If they still do not appear, tap the i next to them if listed and choose Forget This Device, or reset them by holding the button for about 15 seconds until the light flashes amber then white.

Carol B.
User level: Level 7 (22,975 points)

Oct 23, 2026 2:22 PM in response to zan244

Which AirPods are they? From where did you purchase them? Please let us know. If you purchased these used or from anyone other than Apple or one of Apple's authorized retailers, these may be fakes.


Here are instructions on how to pair new AirPods and Airpod Pros.


Set up AirPods and AirPods Pro for the first time

If you're setting up your AirPods for the first time, make sure that you have an iPhone with the latest version of iOS,1 then follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Home Screen.
  2. With your AirPods in the charging case, open the charging case, and hold it next to your iPhone. A setup animation appears on your iPhone. If you don't see the setup animation, learn how to connect your AirPods manually.
  3. Tap Connect. 
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  5. Tap Done.
  6. If you're signed in to iCloud, your AirPods are set up automatically with any of your supported devices that are signed in to iCloud with the same Apple Account.2


Copied from: Connect your AirPods and AirPods Pro to your iPhone - Apple Support


Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256381513