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How to Fix AirPods Not Connecting to iPhone 16, 15 Pro

Posted: September 12, 2024 | Updated: December 04, 2024

Many people are experiencing issues connecting their AirPods Pro (Gen 1) and AirPods Pro 2 to the new iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, receiving a "connection failed" error. These users have successfully paired their AirPods with older iPhone models like the 12 and 14, as well as with other iPhone 15 Pros, but encounter problems with the latest models. The AirPods connect easily with older devices, highlighting a frustrating compatibility issue with the new iPhones.

Problem First Appeared on 25-9-23
Level Normal Based on Software

Affected Devices : AirPods Max AirPods Pro 2nd Generation AirPods 2nd Generation AirPods 3rd Generation

Solutions

Solution 1: Reset Network Settings

Solution 2:

  1. Update your iPhone or iPad to the latest iOS or iPadOS version.
  2. Place both AirPods in the charging case and ensure they’re charging.
  3. Make sure Bluetooth is on by going to Settings > Bluetooth.
  4. If your AirPods are connected, ensure they’re selected as the audio device. If they’re listed but not connecting, proceed to the next step.
  5. Close the lid, wait 15 seconds, then open it.
  6. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for up to 10 seconds until the status light flashes white, indicating readiness to connect.
  7. With the lid open, hold the case next to your iPhone or iPad.
  8. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  9. If the connection fails, reset your AirPods.

Solution 3:

I’ve tried almost everything with my AirPods Max and found a trick by accident six months ago when they were unresponsive for a week. Here’s what worked:

  1. Connect a second set of Bluetooth headphones to your device.
  2. Start playing a song in Apple Music.
  3. Tap the Bluetooth/AirPlay button (the icon with a triangle at the bottom of a circle) on the mini player or in the app.
  4. Select “Share Audio” to put your device into discovery mode for a new device.

This trick helped my AirPods Max connect again. Also, avoid hitting them on your head—it hurts and isn’t recommended. And don’t connect them directly to unsecured televisions. Hope this helps!

Solution 4:

To fix the issue of connecting your earbuds to the new iPhone 15 Pro Max:

  1. Open the white case.
  2. Press and hold the button on the back of the case for a few seconds.

This should resolve the problem and connect your earbuds.

Solution 5:

If you’re still having trouble, try this:

  1. Fully turn off your phone.
  2. Turn it back on.
  3. Once it’s powered up, try connecting your AirPods again.

Solution 6:

If you’re having trouble with your AirPods and can’t get them to work with your iPhone 15 Pro Max, here’s what you can do:

  1. Call Apple Support if you’ve tried everything else and are still having issues.
  2. Explain your problem to them. They may suggest you have a defective set.
  3. Consider returning them for a full refund if they’re not working as expected.
  4. Send them back using the return label provided by Apple Support.

You can return your AirPods within 14 days for a refund if they’re not working properly.

Solution 7:

I solved the problem with my iPhone 15 Pro Max. Here’s what worked for me:

  1. Keep only your AirPods connected via Bluetooth. I tested this with AirPods Pro (1st gen) and AirPods (gen 1, 2, and 3), and they worked flawlessly.
  2. If you connect other devices (like an Apple Watch), the headphones may only play music and not work properly.

Solution 8:

This morning, I discovered that my AirPods 3rd Gen were fake when I visited the Apple Store. I had been using them for two months, bought them on eBay, and only learned they were counterfeit when they wouldn’t connect to my iPhone 15 Pro Max. If your AirPods won’t connect, they might be fake. I bought a genuine pair from Verizon, and they connected instantly and worked perfectly. If you're having connection issues, check with an Apple Store to verify if your AirPods are real.