How to Reset AirPods: Step-by-Step

Tyler Nelson

person holding white plastic container

Resetting your AirPods should be simple, yet many people find it confusing. Whether your AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max aren’t working correctly, knowing how to reset them can fix many issues. Putting your AirPods back in their case and holding the setup button for 15 seconds will reset them.

Resetting your AirPods can solve problems like connectivity issues or poor sound quality. The process varies a little by model, but Apple has made it straightforward. For AirPods or AirPods Pro, put them in the charging case, open the lid, and hold the setup button until the light flashes amber, then white. For AirPods Max, hold the Noise Control and Digital Crown buttons instead.

Understanding how to reset AirPods is essential for troubleshooting. These steps only take a few minutes and often resolve common problems. The benefits of resetting your AirPods include restoring their functionality and improving performance.

AirPods Reset Guide

When to Reset AirPods?

Before diving into the steps, it’s crucial to know when a reset is necessary. Common situations that may require resetting your AirPods include:

  • Connection problems with your device(s)
  • One AirPod not working
  • Issues with audio quality or volume
  • Charging problems

Step-by-Step Reset Instructions:

  1. Place AirPods in the Charging Case: Ensure both AirPods are securely nestled within the charging case.
  2. Close the Lid and Wait: Shut the charging case lid and wait for about 30 seconds. This allows the AirPods to power down completely.
  3. Open the Lid: After the waiting period, open the lid of the charging case.
  4. Press and Hold Setup Button: Locate the setup button on the back of the case. Press and hold this button for approximately 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber, then white.

Pairing AirPods After Reset:

  1. Open Bluetooth Settings: On your device (iPhone, iPad, etc.), navigate to the Bluetooth settings.
  2. Select Your AirPods: Your AirPods should appear in the list of available devices. Tap on them to initiate pairing.
  3. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow any additional instructions that appear on your device’s screen to complete the pairing process.

Important Tips and Troubleshooting:

  • Charge Before Resetting: Ensure your AirPods and charging case have sufficient charge before attempting a reset.
  • Check Firmware: Make sure your AirPods are running the latest firmware version.
  • Contact Apple Support: If resetting doesn’t resolve your issue, contact Apple support for further assistance.

Resetting AirPods Max:

AirPods Max have a slightly different reset process:

  1. Charge AirPods Max: Charge them for a few minutes.
  2. Press and Hold Buttons: Simultaneously press and hold the noise control button and the Digital Crown on the right ear cup until the LED flashes amber, then white.

Key Takeaways

  • To reset AirPods, use the setup button for 15 seconds.
  • For AirPods Max, use the Noise Control and Digital Crown buttons.
  • Resetting helps fix connectivity issues and improves sound quality.

Resetting Your AirPods

Resetting your AirPods can fix connectivity issues or prepare them for a new owner. Here’s how to reset, what happens during the process, and what to do after.

Understanding the Reset Process

Resetting your AirPods clears all settings and connections from the Bluetooth list. This includes removing your AirPods from any connected device and iCloud account. The process does not delete the AirPods from your Apple ID.

This step can help if your AirPods are not charging or connecting properly. It can also fix audio issues or unresponsive buttons. The reset process works for all AirPods models, including AirPods Pro.

Steps to Reset AirPods

  1. Place AirPods in Charging Case: Open the lid.
  2. Press and Hold Setup Button: Hold the button on the back for about 15 seconds. The status light will flash amber and then white.
  3. Wait for LED Flashes: Release the button when the light turns white.

The AirPods are now reset. Ensure the charging case lid remains open during the process. This allows the AirPods to fully reset and be ready for pairing again.

Post-Reset Actions

After resetting, you need to reconnect your AirPods to your devices. Open the case close to your iOS device. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair again. Repeat this with any other devices you use, such as a Mac.

If there’s a need to remove the AirPods from your account, go to the Bluetooth settings and select Forget This Device. Reconnect the AirPods with the new settings. This is crucial for resetting the connection with your Apple ID and iCloud.

By following these steps, your AirPods should work as intended again.