Can AirPods 4 Connect to Any Device? Complete Pairing Guide for All Platforms

Many people assume AirPods only work with iPhones, but that’s not true. AirPods 4 can connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device—iPhone, Android, Windows PC, Mac, or tablet—though some premium features only work with Apple products.

What are AirPods 4 and How Does Pairing Work?

AirPods 4 are Apple’s latest wireless earbuds (released September 2024) that use Bluetooth technology to connect to devices. Unlike some wireless earbuds that require dedicated apps, AirPods 4 can pair with any Bluetooth-enabled device—iPhone, Android, Windows PC, Mac, iPad, and more.

While they offer special features when paired with Apple devices (like automatic switching between your iPhone and Mac, Siri integration, and battery status displays), the core listening experience works universally across all platforms. You’ll get high-quality audio, touch controls for play/pause, and microphone functionality regardless of which device you’re using.

[Current as of: AirPods 4 (2024) - December 2024]

Benefits of AirPods 4’s Universal Pairing

• Device flexibility: Use the same earbuds with your iPhone, work laptop, gaming PC, and Android tablet without buying multiple headphones
• Simple connection process: Standard Bluetooth pairing works the same way across all platforms—no special apps or software required for basic functionality
• Premium audio quality everywhere: You’ll experience Apple’s H2 chip audio processing, adaptive EQ, and spatial audio support (on compatible content) regardless of your device
• Cost efficiency: One pair of earbuds serves all your devices instead of buying platform-specific alternatives for each gadget

Limitations and Considerations

• Apple-exclusive features: Automatic device switching, “Hey Siri” voice activation, audio sharing, and Find My integration only work with Apple devices running recent software (iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, or later)
• No companion app for non-Apple devices: Android and Windows users cannot customize controls, update firmware manually, or check battery levels through an app (you’ll only see battery status on the case’s LED and during Bluetooth connection)
• Reduced battery visibility: Non-Apple devices won’t show individual earbud battery levels—you’ll only see a combined percentage when connected, and no status when the AirPods are in the case

How to Pair AirPods 4 with Any Device - Step by Step

For iPhone and iPad (iOS 18/iPadOS 18 or later):

1. Unlock your iPhone or iPad and ensure Bluetooth is enabled in Settings > Bluetooth

2. Open the AirPods 4 case lid (with AirPods inside) and hold it next to your unlocked iPhone

3. Tap “Connect” on the popup that appears, then tap “Done” Your AirPods are now paired and will automatically connect whenever you open the case near this device

For Android Phones and Tablets:

1. Open Settings and navigate to Bluetooth (location varies: Settings > Connections > Bluetooth on Samsung, Settings > Connected Devices on Google Pixel)

2. With the AirPods inside the case, press and hold the small button on the back of the AirPods case until the status light flashes white (approximately 3 seconds)

3. On your Android device, look for “AirPods 4” in the list of available devices and tap it

4. Wait for the status to change to “Connected” Your AirPods will now connect automatically when you open the case and turn on Bluetooth

For Windows PC (Windows 10/11):

1. Click the Windows Start button, then Settings (gear icon), then select “Bluetooth & devices”

2. Ensure Bluetooth is turned on, then click “Add device” > “Bluetooth”

3. Press and hold the button on the back of your AirPods case until the light flashes white

4. Click “AirPods 4” when it appears in the list, then click “Done” Windows will remember this connection for future use

For Mac (macOS Sequoia or later):

1. Click the Apple menu > System Settings > Bluetooth and ensure Bluetooth is on

2. Press and hold the button on your AirPods case until the status light flashes white

3. Click “Connect” next to AirPods 4 in the devices list Your Mac will now automatically connect to your AirPods when they’re in range and the case is open

For Smart TVs and Gaming Consoles (varies by model):

1. Navigate to your device’s Bluetooth settings (usually under Settings > Sound or Settings > Accessories)

2. Put your AirPods in pairing mode (hold case button until white light flashes)

3. Select “AirPods 4” from the available devices list

Note: Some older TVs and consoles may not support Bluetooth audio or may have connection limitations. Check your device’s manual for Bluetooth audio compatibility.

Common Pairing Issues and Solutions

AirPods won’t enter pairing mode (light doesn’t flash white):

• Ensure AirPods are in the case and the case has battery charge (connect to power if needed)
• Reset AirPods by holding the case button for 15 seconds until the light flashes amber, then white
• Clean the charging contacts inside the case with a dry, lint-free cloth

Device can’t find AirPods:

• Make sure AirPods aren’t already connected to another device (check your other phones, tablets, computers)
• Move closer to the device you’re trying to pair with (within 3 feet/1 meter)
• Restart Bluetooth on your device (turn it off, wait 10 seconds, turn it back on)
• Forget the AirPods from all previously paired devices, then try pairing again

Audio quality is poor or connection drops:

• Ensure your AirPods firmware is updated (happens automatically when connected to an Apple device overnight while charging)
• Remove obstacles between AirPods and device (walls, large metal objects can interfere with Bluetooth)
• Check for interference from other wireless devices (move away from Wi-Fi routers, microwaves)
• Clean AirPods speaker mesh with a dry cotton swab—debris can muffle sound

Only one AirPod works:

• Put both AirPods in the case, close the lid, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect
• Check individual AirPod battery levels on an Apple device to see if one is dead
• Reset your AirPods completely using the 15-second button hold method

Quick Reference Summary

Cross-Platform Compatibility:

• ✅ Works with: iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows, Mac, many smart TVs, gaming consoles
• ✅ Universal features: Audio playback, touch controls (play/pause/skip), phone calls
• ⚠️ Apple-only features: Auto-switching, Siri, Find My, audio sharing, detailed battery stats

Pairing Quick Steps:

1. Open AirPods case (with AirPods inside)
2. For iPhone/iPad: Hold near device → Tap Connect
3. For everything else: Hold case button until white light → Select AirPods in Bluetooth settings

Remember: Your AirPods can remember multiple paired devices, but only connect to one at a time. Apple devices auto-switch; other devices require manual Bluetooth connection.

AirPods 4 work brilliantly across virtually any device with Bluetooth, though Apple users get bonus features. Now you can enjoy premium audio quality whether you’re using an iPhone for calls, an Android tablet for videos, or a Windows PC for work—all with one pair of earbuds.