How to pair AirPods with Android smartphones and tablets

Use AirPods with Android

AirPods have become one of the most popular True Wireless earbuds in the world and there’s no denying that the seamless integration they get with Apple devices – iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, etc – is unmatched and offers users the much-needed convenience they need from their device.

However, there are times when you need to pair your AirPods with a secondary device, such as an Android smartphone or tablet. While most people believe that AirPods only work with Apple devices, this isn’t completely true.

Apple has recently dropped a new how-to guide on how to effectively connect the AirPods with Android devices and use it and in this guide we will tell you a detailed guide on how to do just that.

Pre-requisites
AirPods need to have enough charge
Bluetooth should be turned on and functional

What works and what doesn’t
According to Apple, you can use AirPods with Android to listen and talk. Siri won’t be available and neither AirPods will trigger Google Assistant on Android. Most importantly, basic gestures and controls work.

How to connect AirPods to Android phones and tablets

On Android, go to Settings → Connections → Bluetooth → Enable it
Tap on Pair a new device option and then follow these instructions based on your AirPods model.

AirPods 1st-generation to 3rd-generation: Bring AirPods closer to the Android device, then open the case and press and hold the pairing button at the back of the case. Once the light starts blinking White, look for it in the phone’s settings and tap to pair.

AirPods 4th-generation (non-ANC and ANC): Follow all the instructions as mentioned above. However, to enable pairing mode double-tap the front of the case after opening the flap.

AirPods Max: Press and hold the noise control button for about 5 seconds, or until the status light flashes white.