How to Connect AirPods to a Chromebook

Use Bluetooth technology to sync your wireless Apple headphones

By
Fionna Agomuoh
Fionna Agomuoh
Writer
Fionna Agomuoh is a former freelance contributor to Lifewire. Her writing has appeared in Newsweek, International Business Times, and others.
our editorial process
Fionna Agomuoh
Updated January 09, 2020

Apple's 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. Here's how to easily sync your AirPods with your Chromebook.

These instructions should apply to any Chromebook, regardless of manufacturer, and all AirPod models.

How to Connect Apple AirPods to a Chromebook

Before connecting your AirPods to a Chromebook, close any music or video apps on your iPhone or other Apple devices. Being mid-playback while connected to an Apple device may cause problems when trying to pair the AirPods with your Chromebook.

Connecting AirPods to a Chromebook involves switching on your Bluetooth settings.

  1. Select the Menu option on your Chromebook screen. This is the network icon at the bottom right corner of your screen next to the battery percentage and digital clock. This menu will display options for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, notifications, and more.

  2. Select Bluetooth and turn on your Bluetooth connection if it's off. Once Bluetooth is on, the Chromebook will begin automatically searching for wireless devices.

  3. Have your AirPods and charging case handy, with AirPods inside.

    Keep the charging case nearby to recharge the AirPods; Bluetooth connections can significantly 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.

  4. If your AirPods don't automatically appear on the Chromebook's Bluetooth list, press and hold the Pair button on the back of the AirPods' case. Your AirPods should soon be detected.

    Airpods set up button

    Try to stay within 20 feet of your Chromebook to maintain your AirPods' Bluetooth connection.

  5. Select your AirPods from the Bluetooth Available Devices list on your Chromebook. Confirm any prompts that appear on your Chromebook.

    Once connected, the LED light on your AirPods' case should turn green and the status in your Chromebook Bluetooth settings should say "connected."

  6. Your AirPods are now paired with your Chromebook. Once paired, you can adjust your AirPods' volume via your Chromebook.

How to Disconnect Apple AirPods From a Chromebook

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

After you disconnect from your Chromebook, your AirPods will likely reconnect to the closest Apple device.