Skip to Content

How to stop AirPods from automatically connecting to other Apple Devices? 

As an avid Apple user, I know how frustrating it can be when your AirPods keep automatically connecting to other Apple devices. I’ve encountered this problem many times and it can really get in the way of using your AirPods.

That’s why I wanted to write this blog post to explain how to stop your AirPods from automatically connecting to other Apple devices.

By following the steps outlined in this post, you’ll be able to stop your AirPods from automatically connecting to other Apple devices and help ensure that you’re able to use your AirPods without any unnecessary interruptions. So let’s get started!

Quick tip:

  • With the AirPod connected, launch the Settings app
  • Click on Bluetooth
  • Select Connect to this iPhone
  • Click on When Last Connected to This iPhone
  • The Airpods will connect to the last connected device (typically the iPod).

This new Apple software service is convenient when switching automatically from one device to another. But the convenience may be less desirable when the Airpods connect to another device in the middle of a song, and the music immediately stops.

So how can I make sure the AirPods stay connected to my iPod and keep the music flowing? Continue reading further for suggestions on taking control of the Airpod and how it connects to other devices.

How to stop AirPods from automatically connecting to other Apple Devices? 

The new software has the ability for AirPods to connect to your iPod or other Apple devices automatically. This service can be convenient when listening to music on an iPhone, connecting to an iPad, and having the AirPods switch to the iPad automatically.

Sounds great, right? Maybe, but it can also be an issue when the AirPods become finicky and abruptly connect to another device without your intervention.

So, what can you do to prevent AirPods from switching abruptly to other Apple devices? These are some ways to take more control of how your AirPods behave.

Read more: Why can’t I reset my AirPods?

Change the way AirPods connect to devices

AirPods may randomly connect to other Apple devices when the automatic switching is on, resulting in a less desirable experience. Instead, you may decide to change the device setting from automatic switching to manually connecting to your Airpods.

How to disable Airpod automatic switching to manual mode

The steps required to set the Airpods to Manual connection are:

  • Connect the AirPod to Apple devices as normally
  • Click on Settings for your devices
  • Select Bluetooth
  • Next to the name of your iPod, click on the “I” icon for more information
  • Scroll down and select “Connect to this iPhone” (device) and click it
  • Click the option “When Last Connected to This Phone” if it is set to “Automatically”
  • Make sure to set all other devices, if desired, to manual mode with these instructions

How to forget AirPods?

Follow these steps to disconnect your Bluetooth AirPods from an Apple device completely.

  • Click on Settings to open
  • Click on the blue “I” icon   to the right of your AirPod found in My Devices
  • Click on Forget This Device to remove your AirPods
  • To reconnect, pair them again with your iPhone’s Bluetooth services 

Read more: Why are my AirPods flashing white?

How to connect AirPods to an Apple device

Follow these steps to reconnect your AirPods to an Apple device:

  • Connect your AirPods to your Apple device as normally
  • Click on Settings on the device and open
  • Click on the blue “I” icon  next to the name of your AirPod
  • Scroll to “Connect to this iPhone” and click on it
  • To set to Manual connection, make sure to click “When Last Connected to This iPhone”
  • Connect to all other devices by repeating these steps
AirPods
AirPods

How to stop someone from connecting to your AirPods?

Other people can connect to your AirPods if they have the same Bluetooth address. The easiest way to lockout and protect your AirPods is to set a Password.

To set a password, go to Settings > Bluetooth and select your AirPods. After selecting your AirPods, scroll to “Password Protected” and click to turn on. Your AirPods are now set to a password that has to be entered each time anyone connects.

Can AirPods Be Used With Other Non-Apple Devices?

If your device supports Bluetooth, then it probably will connect with AirPods. To connect to most devices, these are some steps to connecting your AirPods:

  1. With the AirPods in the charging case, open the lid
  2. Press and hold the white button on the back of the case
  3. During the pairing mode, the AirPod status light will blink, indicating pairing mode
  4. While in pairing mode, pair the AirPod to the device by using the Bluetooth settings menu
  5. When paired to your device, they will function like any other Bluetooth wireless device

Pros

  • Easy to use and set up
  • Good sound quality
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Compatible with most Apple devices
  • Can be used with non-Apple devices

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Can be connected to other Apple devices without your knowledge
  • Short battery life