Although Apple AirPods are designed to work with other Apple products, you can also connect them to your Windows 11 computer. All you have to do is turn on Bluetooth on your computer and enable pairing mode on your AirPods.
Turn on Bluetooth on your Windows 11 PC
Before you can connect AirPods to your Windows 11 PC, you’ll need to make sure Bluetooth is turned on, which you can do in the Settings app.
First, click the up arrow in the system tray, then click the Bluetooth icon from the menu that appears.
Next, click on “Open Settings” near the bottom of the context menu.
You will now be on the Bluetooth & Devices page in the Settings app. Toggle the slider next to the Bluetooth option to the “On” position.
Now that you have Bluetooth turned on, you can start pairing your AirPods.
Related: What is bluetooth?
Connect AirPods to your Windows 11 PC
To connect AirPods to your PC, go back to the Bluetooth & Devices page in the Settings app (System Tray > Bluetooth icon > Open Settings) and tap Add Device next to the option that lets you pair new devices with your PC.
The Add Device window will appear. Click “Bluetooth” at the top of this window.
Windows will start searching for Bluetooth devices. You’ll need to put your AirPods into pairing mode for Windows to find them. Put the AirPods in the case and open the cover, then press and hold the pairing button on the back of the case. When the light on the front of the case begins to flash white, you can let go of the button.
After a few seconds, Windows will find your AirPods. Select your AirPods from the list of found devices.
Once selected, Windows will start pairing the two devices. Once done, AirPods will be connected to your Windows 11 PC.
You can connect AirPods to any Bluetooth-enabled device, such as a Mac or Apple TV. We also have a guide dedicated to connecting AirPods Pro. There is more to AirPods than just plugging them in. If you’re new to Apple earbuds, we cover everything you need to know about AirPods.
Related: How to Use AirPods and AirPods Pro: The Complete Guide
