Apple’s AirPods are designed primarily for use with Apple devices, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use them with an Android phone or tablet. 

While you won’t get all the features available on an iPhone, you can still enjoy high-quality audio and a seamless wireless experience. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up and connect your AirPods to an Android device.

Step 1: Enable Bluetooth on Your Android Device

Before pairing your AirPods, ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on your Android phone or tablet:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.

  2. Navigate to Connections or Bluetooth (depending on your device model).

  3. Toggle the Bluetooth switch to On.

Step 2: Put Your AirPods into Pairing Mode

To connect your AirPods, they must be in pairing mode:

  1. Place both AirPods inside the charging case and close the lid.

  2. Open the lid of the charging case.

  3. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the LED light starts flashing white. This indicates that your AirPods are in pairing mode.

Step 3: Connect AirPods to Your Android Device

Now that your AirPods are discoverable, it’s time to pair them with your Android phone:

  1. On your Android device, go to Bluetooth settings.

  2. Look for AirPods in the list of available devices.

  3. Tap on AirPods to start the pairing process.

  4. A confirmation message will appear—select Pair to complete the connection.

Step 4: Adjust Audio Settings for the Best Experience

Since AirPods are optimised for Apple devices, some features (like automatic ear detection and Siri integration) won’t work. However, you can still fine-tune your experience:

  • Use a third-party app: Apps like "Assistant Trigger" can help enable features like battery level indication and Google Assistant support.

  • Adjust sound quality: Some Android phones allow you to modify Bluetooth audio codecs in the developer settings for better sound.

  • Enable touch controls: By default, AirPods support tap gestures. Double-tap to play/pause or skip tracks.

Step 5: Reconnect and Manage Your AirPods

Your AirPods should reconnect automatically once paired. If you need to switch devices or troubleshoot connection issues:

  • Go to Bluetooth settings, select AirPods, and tap Disconnect or Forget device to reset.

  • Repeat the pairing process if needed.

While you may not get all the native Apple features, using AirPods with an Android device is still a great way to enjoy wireless audio with premium sound quality. 

With the right setup and a few tweaks, you can make the most of your AirPods even outside the Apple ecosystem. 

Discover top quality iPhone accessories to protect your AirPods from scratches and damage right here at Wave Case.

March 24, 2025 — Wave Case
Tags: Tech