How to pair AirPods with any Android phone — 5 simple steps

Apple AirPods Pro vs. Amazon Echo Buds
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

While AirPods were built with Apple devices in mind, you can absolutely use them with your Android phone.

Just because you're an Android user doesn't mean you have to default to Samsung Galaxy Buds or other Android-exclusive earbuds, AirPods work well with any smartphone once you know how to pair them.

You'll miss some Apple-specific features like Siri integration and device switching, but you'll still enjoy excellent sound quality, reliable connectivity, and the convenience of wireless audio. Whether you switched from iPhone or just prefer the design, pairing your Android with AirPods is easier than you think.

In this guide, we'll walk you through connecting any AirPods model to your Android device, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite audio content regardless of which ecosystem you prefer.

1. Access Bluetooth settings

(Image: © Future)

Navigate to your Android device's settings and find the Bluetooth option. The exact location will vary depending on your device's manufacturer.

On most devices, you can also pull down from the top of your screen and tap the Bluetooth icon to access these settings quickly.

2. Pair a new device

(Image: © Future)

Once in the Bluetooth menu, tap Pair new device to start scanning for nearby devices.

3. Prepare your AirPods

(Image: © Future)

Open your AirPods case and press and hold the button on the back of the case until the indicator light starts flashing white.

Your AirPods (or AirPods Pro) should appear in the list of available Bluetooth devices on your Android device.

4. Initiate pairing

(Image: © Future)

Locate your AirPods in the list and tap on them. Then confirm the pairing.

5. Confirm the connection

(Image: © Future)

Once paired, your Android device should show the AirPods as connected. That's it —you're ready to enjoy seamless wireless audio on your Android device.


Now that your AirPods are paired with Android, explore 10 ways to get better sound from your AirPods for optimal performance.

Now that your AirPods are working with Android, avoid 5 wireless earbuds mistakes you're probably making to keep them performing their best. And since you'll be using them regularly, remember your earbuds are disgusting — here's the right way to clean them.

More from Tom's Guide

Category
Arrow
Arrow
Back to Mobile Cell Phones
Brand
Arrow
Storage Size
Arrow
Colour
Arrow
Condition
Arrow
Price
Arrow
Any Price
Showing 10 of 156 deals
Filters
Arrow
Our Review
1
Google Pixel 9 Pro 128 GB
Verizon
(Black)
Our Review
2
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra...
Mint Mobile
(128GB)
Our Review
3
Google Pixel 8a - Unlocked...
Amazon
(Black)
Our Review
4
OnePlus 13,12GB RAM + 256GB...
Amazon
Our Review
5
Google Pixel 9 256 GB
Verizon
(128GB)
Our Review
6
Google Pixel 9 Pro - Unlocked...
Amazon
Our Review
8
Google Pixel 8a 128 GB
Visible
Our Review
9
OnePlus - 13 512GB (Unlocked)...
Best Buy
(128GB)
Our Review
10
Google Pixel 9 - Unlocked...
Amazon
Show more
TOPICS
Kaycee Hill
Tutorials editor

Kaycee is an Editor at Tom’s Guide and has been writing for as long as she can remember. Her journey into the tech world began as Cazoo's Knowledge Content Specialist, igniting her enthusiasm for technology. When she’s not exploring the latest gadgets and innovations, Kaycee can be found immersed in her favorite video games, or penning her second poetry collection.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.