If your AirPods won’t go into pairing mode, it usually means there’s a problem with the setup button, charging case, or firmware. When the case light doesn’t flash white, the AirPods aren’t entering the connection process correctly. The following steps explain how to fix the issue and get your AirPods into pairing mode again.
Check AirPods and Case Battery Level
Ensure the Case and AirPods Are Charged
Your AirPods need sufficient power to enter pairing mode.
- Place both AirPods in the charging case.
- Connect the case to power using a Lightning, USB-C, or MagSafe charger.
- Charge for at least 15–20 minutes before attempting pairing again.
- Open the lid and check if the status light turns on. No light indicates the case isn’t charging properly.
If the light doesn’t appear, try another charging cable, adapter, or port.
Hold the Setup Button Correctly
Proper Timing for Pairing Mode
- Keep both AirPods inside the case and open the lid.
- Hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds.
- Watch the LED indicator: it should flash amber, then white.
- When the light flashes white, release the button – the AirPods are now in pairing mode.
If the light never turns white, continue with the next troubleshooting steps.
Clean the AirPods and Charging Contacts
Dust or debris on the charging connectors can stop the AirPods from resetting or entering pairing mode.
- Use a dry, soft brush or microfiber cloth to clean the charging contacts inside the case.
- Gently wipe the bottom of each AirPod stem.
- Make sure the AirPods sit firmly and make full contact with the charging pins.
After cleaning, try holding the setup button again with the lid open.
Forget AirPods from Bluetooth Settings
If your AirPods were previously connected but won’t re-pair, an old connection may be interfering.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the (i) next to your AirPods.
- Choose Forget This Device, then confirm.
- Restart your iPhone.
- Try putting your AirPods into pairing mode again.
Reset Your AirPods Completely
A full reset can clear any internal pairing errors.
- Place both AirPods in the charging case.
- Close the lid for 30 seconds, then open it.
- Hold the setup button until the light flashes amber, then white.
- Reconnect to your iPhone or another device.
If the light never flashes white, the case or AirPods might not be responding properly.
Check for Physical Damage or Button Malfunction
A broken or unresponsive setup button can prevent pairing mode activation.
- Press the button firmly and ensure it clicks normally.
- If the button feels stuck, lightly clean around it with a dry cotton swab.
- Inspect the case for cracks, dents, or water damage.
If the button doesn’t respond at all, it may need servicing.
Update Firmware and iOS
Outdated firmware or iOS versions can cause pairing failures.
- Update iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Update AirPods Firmware: Keep your AirPods in the case, connected to power, and near your iPhone for a few hours. Updates install automatically.
After updating, retry the pairing process.
Try Pairing with Another Device
To rule out a device-specific issue, attempt pairing your AirPods with another iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Open the case near the other device.
- Hold the setup button until the white light flashes.
- If pairing works on another device, reset your main device’s network settings.
Reset Network Settings on iPhone
If your AirPods won’t go into pairing mode only with one device, try resetting Bluetooth and network data.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- Reboot your phone, then try pairing again.
Contact Apple Support if the Light Doesn’t Flash
If the status light never flashes, even after charging and resetting, the issue may be hardware-related.
- The charging case could have a faulty circuit or dead battery.
- The setup button or LED may be defective.
In this case, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for inspection or replacement.