How to Connect AirPods to a Microsoft Surface

This article will walk you through the steps for how to connect your Apple AirPods to your Microsoft Surface and what to do when they aren’t detected or don’t pair correctly.

How to Pair Apple AirPods to a Microsoft Surface

Here’s what you need to do to make the initial pairing between your Surface and AirPods.

1. Open the Windows 10 Action Center on your Surface.

   You can do this by swiping in from the right side of the screen or by selecting its icon in the Windows 10 taskbar.

2. Check that Bluetooth is turned on. If Bluetooth’s turned off, select its icon from the Action Center, so it’s highlighted.

3. Select All settings.

4. Select Devices.

5. Select Add Bluetooth & other device.

6. Select Bluetooth.

7. Open the AirPods’ case (keep the AirPods inside). Firmly press the button on the back of the AirPods’ case until the light on its front begins to flash. Doing this will make them discoverable by your Surface.

8. Select your AirPods from the list of Bluetooth devices.

   If you've previously given your AirPods a custom name, that name should appear on this list.

9. Select Done.

Why Won't My AirPods Connect to My Surface Pro?

There are several potential reasons your Apple AirPods aren’t connecting to your Surface Pro or other Surface devices properly.

• Bluetooth is disabled on your Surface. Turn Bluetooth back on via the Windows 10 Action Center.
• You connected the AirPods to something else. Apple AirPods often stay connected to the first synced device they detect when activated. Remove them from the other device or turn that device’s Bluetooth off to disconnect them.
• You connected your Surface to something else. Your Surface Pro might already be streaming audio to a speaker or pair of headphones. Disconnect that other device or turn it off. 
• The batteries may be flat. Make sure to charge your AirPods daily, so they have plenty of battery life, and place them back in their case so they don’t accidentally turn on and use all their power when not in use.
• Your Surface isn’t seeing your AirPods. To fix this, place your AirPods in their case, close the lid, and then open it again.
• Windows 10 is glitching. Restart your Surface and run the Bluetooth troubleshooter. Go to All Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters to fix any potential Bluetooth problems. If that doesn’t work, there are some additional Windows 10 Bluetooth tips worth trying.
• Your AirPods could be fake. The chances of this happening are slim if you bought your AirPods from an Apple Store, but if you got them from a reseller, your AirPods could be fake or damaged.