How to connect AirPods to Apple Watch

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Ensure Compatibility and Prepare Your Devices

Check Compatibility

• AirPods: Any model of AirPods should work with an Apple Watch.
• Apple Watch: Ensure your Apple Watch is updated to the latest version of watchOS.

Prepare Your Devices

• Charge Your AirPods: Ensure your AirPods are fully charged.
• Turn On Bluetooth: Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your Apple Watch. You can check this by swiping up on the watch face to open the Control Center and looking for the Bluetooth icon.
   

Step 2: Connect Your AirPods to Your Apple Watch

Automatic Pairing (If AirPods are Already Paired with iPhone)

If your AirPods are already paired with your iPhone and your Apple Watch is paired with the same iPhone, your AirPods should automatically pair with your Apple Watch. To use them:

• Wear Your AirPods: Put your AirPods in your ears.
• Play Audio: On your Apple Watch, open the Music app, Podcasts app, or any other audio app and start playing content. Your AirPods should automatically connect and play the audio.

Manual Pairing (If AirPods are Not Paired with iPhone or Need Re-Pairing)

1. Open AirPods Case: With your AirPods inside, open the lid of the case but keep the AirPods inside.
2. Activate Pairing Mode: Press and hold the setup button on the back of the AirPods case until the status light flashes white.
3. Access Bluetooth Settings on Apple Watch: 
   - Press the Digital Crown to go to the Home screen. 
   - Tap on the Settings app (gear icon). 
   - Scroll down and tap Bluetooth.
4. Pair Your AirPods: Look for your AirPods under the “Devices” list. Tap on your AirPods name to connect.

Step 3: Verify Connection

1. Check Connection: Once paired, your AirPods should appear as “Connected” in the Bluetooth settings on your Apple Watch.
2. Play Audio: Start playing any audio content from your Apple Watch to ensure the sound is coming through your AirPods.

Additional Tips

• Switching Devices: If you need to switch your AirPods between your Apple Watch and iPhone, simply select the AirPods in the Bluetooth settings of the device you want to use.
• AirPlay Menu: You can also use the AirPlay menu on your Apple Watch (swipe up on the watch face to open the Control Center, tap the AirPlay icon) to select your AirPods for audio output.
   

By following these steps, you should be able to enjoy seamless audio playback from your Apple Watch to your AirPods. This setup is particularly convenient for workouts and other activities where carrying an iPhone might not be ideal.