AirPods don't connect to my iPhone

Re: AirPods don't connect to my iPhone : I’m using an iPhone 12, MacBook M2, and AirPods 3, and I’ve updated the OS to iOS26 and macOS26 on all my devices.

You may want to check if the firmware on the AirPods has automatically updated after updating your devices:

About firmware updates for AirPods - Apple Support

If needed: Tip: Leave AirPods connected to power overnight with the iPhone connected to wi-fi close by,

so they can update automatically (Or: They will update more quickly via Computer)

See what to do: If your AirPods or AirPods Pro won't connect - Apple Support

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Re: "When I connect the AirPods to my MacBook, they don’t connect to my iPhone.

You might want to check that you are only connecting the AirPods to one device at a time.

(Eg may not be switching between multiple devices.)

If needed: See how to: Switch your AirPods to another device - Apple Support

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Re: " It seems like they connect, but the sound only comes out of the iPhone speaker when I play music."

See if the audio plays through the airPods in airport mode

Check whether the audio is already in use by another app (Voice Memos / a game / etc.)

You can try turning Bluetooth of and back on. (If you see "not connected" tap that.)

If that hasn't helped:

You can try carefully cleaning the AiPods in case a speck of wax or dirt is blocking some of the openings:

If cleaning hasn't helped either:

You might want to try Restarting the iPhone to re-establish the connection,

and, if needed: resetting the AirPods

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Resource:

AirPods User Guide - Apple Support

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More support . info. if needed: AirPods Support Website:

Find all the topics, resources, and contact options you need for your AirPods...

AirPods Support - Official Apple Support