Can I switch AirPods between multiple devices (e.g., iPhone and Mac)?

I just got a new pair of AirPods Pro 2nd generation and I’m wondering about their flexibility across my devices. Specifically, I own an iPhone 13 and a MacBook Pro (both set up under the same Apple ID). I sometimes listen to podcasts or make calls on my phone, but I also want to use them seamlessly with my Mac for video calls, music, or working in Logic Pro. Can I switch AirPods between these devices automatically or manually without needing to disconnect and re-pair them each time? Are there any limitations, like audio interruptions during device switching or any settings I need to configure to make this smooth? Also, would this work with other Apple devices like an iPad or Apple Watch if I add them later?

Yes, you can switch AirPods between an iPhone and a Mac seamlessly within Apple’s ecosystem, provided they meet certain requirements. Here are the key details:

1. Requirement for Automatic Switching:

   • Same Apple ID: Both your iPhone and your Mac must be signed into the exact same Apple ID/iCloud account.
   • Bluetooth Enabled: Bluetooth must be turned on on both devices and your AirPods must be paired with each device (initial pairing only needs to be done once on one device, but both will appear in their respective Bluetooth settings).
   • Automatic Ear Detection: Must be enabled on your AirPods (this is usually on by default).
   • Active Audio: You must be actively playing audio on one device. The AirPods will automatically switch to the device you start using for audio playback.

2. How Automatic Switching Works:

   • When your AirPods are connected to one device (e.g., listening to music on your Mac), and then you start playing audio on your iPhone (e.g., answer a call, play a podcast), the AirPods will automatically disconnect from the Mac and connect to the iPhone within a few seconds.
   • The switch is designed to be very quick and noticeable.
   • Spatial audio (if enabled) will also adapt to the new device’s position relative to your head.

3. Manual Switching:

   • If you want to switch without starting audio playback, or if automatic switching doesn’t happen:
     • On your iPhone: Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the "i" icon next to your AirPods, and tap "Connect".
     • On your Mac: Click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar, or go to System Settings > Bluetooth, click the "i" next to your AirPods, and click "Connect".
   • You can also use the AirPods’ proximity sensor: remove an AirPod from your ear while connected to one device; then put it in your ear while your desired device is playing audio or you trigger the "Connect" action. Alternatively, hold the force sensor on either AirPod for 1-2 seconds to cycle between connected devices when paired to multiple.

4. Enabling/Disabling Automatic Switching:

   • You can turn automatic device switching on or off for your AirPods:
     • iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the "i" icon next to your AirPods, then toggle "Automatic Device Switching".
     • Mac: Go to System Settings > Bluetooth, click the "i" next to your AirPods, then click the "Device Details…" button, and toggle "Automatic Device Switching" in the "Audio" section.
   • Disabling this will prevent automatic switching, requiring you to manually switch as described above.
5. Additional Notes:
   • Mac Version Requirements: Automatic switching is most reliable on macOS BigSur (11.5) or later, and iOS/iPadOS 14.6 or later. Earlier macOS versions may require manual switching or less reliable automatic behavior.
   • Apple Watch Switching: Automatic switching also works with an Apple Watch paired to the same Apple ID. The watch takes priority over iPhone/Mac for audio calls and notifications.
   • Spatial Audio: If enabled, spatial audio works automatically on compatible devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac) depending on the device’s position relative to your head when the switch occurs.
   • Battery Status: You can check the battery status of your AirPods and case from either the iPhone or the Mac when connected.
   • Find My: If you enable "Find My" for your AirPods (recommended), you can see their last known location on any device signed into the same iCloud account.