Are your AirPods missing from your Bluetooth devices list? This common issue can be frustrating when you’re trying to enjoy music or take a call. If your AirPods won’t show up in your device’s Bluetooth settings, try placing them in their charging case, closing the lid for 30 seconds, then opening it again while holding it close to your device.
Many users face this problem across iPhones, iPads, Macs, and even non-Apple devices. The good news is that most connectivity issues can be solved with a few simple steps. Sometimes the solution is as easy as making sure your AirPods are fully charged or checking that Bluetooth is actually turned on.
If the quick fix doesn’t work, don’t worry. You might need to reset your AirPods or update your device’s software. Remember that dust or debris in the charging case can also interfere with the connection sensors, so keeping them clean helps maintain reliable connectivity.
AirPods Not Showing Up in Devices List? How to Fix It
If your AirPods aren’t appearing in the Bluetooth or devices list on your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Windows device, the issue is usually related to pairing mode, battery level, or Bluetooth settings. This guide walks you through the most effective fixes.
Common Reasons AirPods Don’t Appear
Before troubleshooting, it helps to know why this happens:
- AirPods aren’t in pairing mode
- Low or dead battery
- Bluetooth is turned off or malfunctioning
- AirPods are already paired to another device
- Software glitches on the device
- Interference or connection conflicts
Quick Fixes to Try First
1. Make Sure Bluetooth Is On
Check that Bluetooth is enabled on your device:
- iPhone/iPad: Settings → Bluetooth
- Mac: System Settings → Bluetooth
- Windows: Settings → Bluetooth & devices
If Bluetooth is on, try turning it off and back on.
2. Charge Your AirPods
Low battery can prevent AirPods from appearing.
- Place AirPods in the charging case
- Charge the case for at least 15–30 minutes
- Open the case near your device
Put AirPods into Pairing Mode
For AirPods (1st, 2nd, 3rd Gen) & AirPods Pro
- Place AirPods in the case
- Open the lid
- Press and hold the setup button on the back
- Release when the status light flashes white
For AirPods 4 (if applicable) or newer models
- Follow Apple’s onscreen instructions or use the setup button if available
Once in pairing mode, your AirPods should appear in the devices list.
Fixes for iPhone or iPad
1. Restart Your Device
A quick restart can clear Bluetooth glitches:
- Power off your iPhone or iPad
- Wait 30 seconds
- Turn it back on
2. Reset Network Settings
If Bluetooth still won’t detect AirPods:
- Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Reset
- Choose Reset Network Settings
Note: This erases Wi‑Fi passwords and Bluetooth connections.
Fixes for Mac
- Go to System Settings → Bluetooth
- Turn Bluetooth off and on
- Restart your Mac
- Try pairing again
If needed:
- Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Bluetooth
- Ensure Bluetooth access is enabled
Fixes for Windows or Android
- Remove nearby Bluetooth devices that might interfere
- Update Bluetooth drivers (Windows)
- Turn Bluetooth off, restart the device, then turn Bluetooth back on
- Try pairing from Bluetooth settings, not quick menus
Reset Your AirPods (Most Effective Fix)
If AirPods still don’t appear, reset them:
- Place AirPods in the case
- Close the lid for 30 seconds
- Open the lid
- Press and hold the setup button for 15 seconds
- Release when the light flashes amber, then white
- Try pairing again
Check for Software Updates
Outdated software can cause pairing issues:
- iPhone/iPad: Settings → General → Software Update
- Mac: System Settings → General → Software Update
When to Contact Apple Support
Contact Apple Support if:
- AirPods don’t show up on any device
- The case light doesn’t turn on
- AirPods were exposed to water or physical damage
Final Thoughts
When AirPods don’t show up in the devices list, the problem is usually minor. Ensuring Bluetooth is enabled, charging your AirPods, and resetting them resolves most issues quickly.
If the problem persists across multiple devices, it may be a hardware issue requiring professional support.
Key Takeaways
- Place AirPods in their case for 30 seconds before trying to connect again to reset the connection process.
- Check that both Bluetooth is enabled and your AirPods have sufficient charge before troubleshooting further.
- Reset your AirPods by pressing the setup button on the case for 15 seconds if connection problems persist.
Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues
When AirPods don’t show up on devices, a few key fixes can quickly restore their functionality. These solutions range from simple Bluetooth toggles to complete resets of your wireless earbuds.
Checking Bluetooth and Device Settings
First, make sure Bluetooth is active on your device. Open the control center on iOS by swiping down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom on older models) and confirm the Bluetooth icon is blue. On macOS, check the Bluetooth menu in the menu bar or System Preferences.
If Bluetooth is on but the AirPods still don’t appear, try turning Bluetooth off and on again. This simple step often resolves minor connection hiccups for all AirPods models, including AirPods Pro and AirPods Max.
For iOS and iPadOS users, go to Settings > Bluetooth to see if your AirPods appear in the device list. On Windows computers, check the Bluetooth settings in the system tray or Control Panel.
Make sure your AirPods have sufficient battery charge. Low battery can prevent detection, so place them in their charging case for at least 15 minutes.
Resetting and Reconnecting AirPods
If basic checks don’t work, try resetting your AirPods:
- Place both AirPods in the charging case and close the lid
- Wait 30 seconds, then open the lid
- On your iOS device, go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the (i) icon next to your AirPods
- Select Forget This Device and confirm
- With the case lid open, press and hold the setup button on the back for about 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber, then white
- Reconnect by holding the case near your device with the lid open
This reset works for all AirPods versions including AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd Generation) and AirPods (2nd and 3rd Generation). If one AirPod (like the left one) isn’t showing up, try cleaning the affected AirPod and charging contacts in the case.
For persistent issues, check if your device’s operating system needs updating, as outdated iOS, macOS, or iPadOS versions can cause compatibility problems with newer AirPods models.
Addressing Software and Hardware Concerns
When AirPods don’t show up in Bluetooth connections, both software and hardware issues could be the culprit. Fixing these problems requires a systematic approach that addresses both the digital and physical aspects of the device.
Updating Software and Firmware
Outdated software is a common reason why AirPods won’t show up on Bluetooth. To fix this issue, users should ensure their device’s operating system is current.
For iPhone users:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Install any available iOS updates
- AirPods firmware updates automatically when connected to an iOS device
Mac users need to check for macOS updates by selecting the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update. Windows PC users should check for updates in Settings > Update & Security.
The AirPods need the right firmware version to work properly. Users can check their AirPods firmware by connecting them to an iOS device, going to Settings > General > About > AirPods. Apple doesn’t offer manual firmware updates, but keeping the host device updated helps.
Outdated WatchOS can also cause connection problems for Apple Watch users. They should update their watch through the Watch app on their iPhone.
Assessing and Resolving Hardware Issues
Physical problems often prevent AirPods from appearing in Bluetooth lists. The first step is to check the charging case and battery levels.
Battery check steps:
- Place AirPods in the charging case
- Open the lid near the device
- Check the status light – amber means charging needed, green means fully charged
If battery levels are good but connections still fail, Bluetooth interference might be the issue. Users should move away from other wireless devices, microwaves, or USB 3.0 devices that can disrupt Bluetooth signals.
Physical damage can also cause connection problems. Users should inspect their AirPods and case for visible damage. Water exposure, dropped AirPods, or a damaged charging case can all prevent proper connections.
For persistent hardware issues, a reset might help. Press and hold the setup button on the charging case for about 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber, then white. If problems continue, contacting Apple Support is recommended.
