How to Connect AirPods to a Chromebook

Be sure Bluetooth is on, then use the Setup button on the AirPods case

By
Fionna Agomuoh
Fionna Agomuoh
Fionna Agomuoh
Writer
  • University at Buffalo
Fionna Agomuoh is a former freelance contributor to Lifewire. Her writing has appeared in Newsweek, International Business Times, and others.
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Updated on December 2, 2022
Reviewed by
Michael Barton Heine Jr
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Reviewed by Michael Barton Heine Jr
    Michael Heine is a CompTIA-certified writer, editor, and Network Engineer with 25+ years' experience working in the television, defense, ISP, telecommunications, and education industries.
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    What to Know

    • In the system tray, select the Clock > Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth.
    • With the AirPods in the case, select your AirPods from the list of available devices.
    • If they are not detected, press and hold the Setup button on the AirPods case.

    This article explains how to connect AirPods to a Chromebook and how to disconnect them. These instructions apply to any Chromebook, regardless of manufacturer, and all AirPod models.

    How to Pair AirPods to Your Chromebook

    Apple AirPods are traditionally meant to pair only with various Apple products. However, other devices, such as Chromebooks, can pair with AirPods via your laptop's Bluetooth setting.

    Before connecting, close any music or video apps on your iPhone or other Apple devices. Being mid-playback while AirPods are connected to an Apple device can cause problems when pairing to a Chromebook (or any other device).

    1. Have the AirPods and charging case handy, with the AirPods inside.

      Keep the charging case nearby to recharge the AirPods. Bluetooth connections can drain the battery of any wireless device. AirPods have about five hours of battery life, and the case can add up to 24 hours of additional battery life.

    2. In lower-right corner of the screen, select the clock to open the system tray menu.

      Chromebook screen with bottom right corner with clock highlighted

    3. Select the Bluetooth icon in the tray menu.

      Chrome OS system tray menu

    4. Select the toggle next to Bluetooth if it's off. Once Bluetooth is on, the Chromebook automatically searches for wireless devices. Select your AirPods from the list of available devices and confirm any prompts that appear.

      Bluetooth menu on a Chromebook

      Once connected, the LED light on the AirPods case turns green, and the status in the Chromebook Bluetooth settings says Connected.

    5. If the AirPods don't automatically appear on the Chromebook's Bluetooth list, press and hold the Setup button on the back of the AirPods case until the AirPods are detected.

      Airpods set up button

      Stay within 20 feet of the Chromebook to maintain the AirPods' Bluetooth connection.

    6. The AirPods are now paired with the Chromebook. After they are paired, you can adjust the AirPods volume from the Chromebook.

    How to Disconnect Apple AirPods From a Chromebook

    To disconnect your AirPods from your Chromebook, turn off the Chromebook's Bluetooth connection or press and hold the Pair button on the back of the AirPods case.

    FAQ
    • Why won't my AirPods connect to my Chromebook?

      If the AirPods aren't working with the Chromebook, there is likely a connection issue. Check to see if Bluetooth is enabled on a nearby iOS device or Mac. This could prevent the AirPods from connecting with the Chromebook. Also, try resetting your AirPods and connecting again.

    • How do I connect a Chromebook to a TV?

      To connect your Chromebook to a TV, connect an HDMI cable to the Chromebook's HDMI port or a USB-C port with an adapter. Insert the other cable end into an HDMI port on the TV and set the TV to the right input channel. On your Chromebook, select the clock icon > Settings > Displays > turn on Mirror Internal Display.

    • How do I connect a Chromebook to a printer?

      To add a printer to a Chromebook for wireless printing, go to Settings > Advanced > Printing > Printers. Select Add a Printer and choose your printer. Your printer must be connected to the Wi-Fi network for this to work.

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