How do I connect my AirPods to a different iPhone?

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How do I connect my AirPods to a different iPhone? I recently got a new iPhone and want to switch my current AirPods from my old device to the new one, but every time I open the lid near my new phone, it says “Your AirPods are connected to another iPhone.” How do I unpair them from my old device and set them up properly with my new iPhone without losing all my customizations like the ear tip fit test settings or spatial audio configurations?

To connect your AirPods to a different iPhone, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure AirPods are Charged: Place your AirPods in their charging case and close the lid. Wait at least 30 seconds.
  2. Prepare the New iPhone: Unlock the new iPhone and ensure Bluetooth is enabled (Settings > Bluetooth: toggle ON if needed).
  3. Initiate Pairing:
    • Open the charging case lid and hold it near the iPhone (1-2 inches).
    • Alternatively, if using AirPods Pro or AirPods (3rd gen), press and hold the case’s setup button until the status light pulses amber, then white.
  4. Follow On-Screen Prompts:
    • On the iPhone, a pop-up animation appears: "Connect AirPods".
    • Tap "Connect".
    • For AirPods Pro or Max, a "Connect" button also appears in the Bluetooth settings menu under "Other Devices".
  5. Enable Features (Optional):
    • Tap "Done" after setup.
    • If prompted, configure "Hey Siri" voice activation.
    • Enable Automatic Switching (iOS 14+): Settings > Bluetooth > [Your AirPods] > tap "i" > toggle "Automatic Device Switching" ON.
  6. Cross-Device Sync (If Same Apple ID):
    • AirPods automatically sync across iPhones/iPads signed in with the same Apple ID. No extra steps needed.
    • On the new iPhone, AirPods will appear in Bluetooth settings under "My Devices" once paired.
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If Pairing Fails:

  • Reset AirPods (if previously linked to another Apple ID):
    Hold the setup button until the status light flashes amber 3 times, then white. Repeat pairing steps.
  • Forget Old Device:
    On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth > tap "i" next to AirPods > "Forget This Device". Retry pairing.
  • Firmware Update:
    Connect AirPods to the new iPhone and check for updates: Settings > Bluetooth > tap "i" next to AirPods > "Firmware Version". Updates occur automatically while charging and connected via Bluetooth.

Note:

  • Apple ID consistency ensures seamless switching across devices. If AirPods were set up with a different Apple ID, reset them first (as above) to re-pair.
  • AirPods must be within 10 feet of the new iPhone during pairing.

Published: September 23, 2025