Step 1 — Place both earbuds in the charging case

Whether you replaced an earbud or the charging case itself, make sure both earbuds and the case are together before starting the pairing process.

Step 2 — Remove AirPods 4 from Bluetooth

Open your device's Bluetooth Settings. Find your AirPods 4, tap the ⓘ icon, then select Forget This Device.

Step 3 — Charge if needed

If the earbuds or charging case have a low battery, place both earbuds in the case, connect it to a power source, close the lid, and wait at least 20 minutes before continuing.

Step 4 — Reset the AirPods 4

Place both earbuds in the charging case and open the lid. If the status light is not flashing white, follow this sequence:

1. Double-tap the front of the charging case while the status light is on.
2. Double-tap the front again when the status light flashes white.
3. Double-tap the front a third time when the status light flashes faster.

Amber flashing light: The AirPods are resetting.

White flashing light: The reset was successful and the AirPods are ready to pair.

Step 5 — Connect your AirPods 4

With both earbuds inside the charging case, open the lid and hold the case near your iPhone or iPad.

When the setup animation appears, tap Connect and follow the on-screen instructions.

If no setup screen appears, open your device's Bluetooth Settings. With the case open, double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white, then select AirPods 4 from the list of available devices.

Optional — Reset Again

If your AirPods 4 still aren't pairing correctly, repeat the reset process and try pairing again.

1. Place both earbuds in the charging case.
2. Close the lid and wait 30 seconds.
3. Open the lid.
4. Double-tap the front of the case when the status light is on, double-tap again when it flashes white, then double-tap a third time when it flashes faster.
5. Wait for the amber light, followed by the flashing white light.
6. Repeat Step 5 above.