Connecting your AirPods or AirPods Pro to an Apple TV is an easy way to enjoy content on your TV without disturbing others. Once connected, you can listen privately through your AirPods while the TV volume is muted or lowered.
Table of Contents
Prerequisites
Before connecting your AirPods to an Apple TV, make sure:
- Your AirPods and Apple TV are updated to the latest firmware versions. To update, connect them to an iOS device with internet access.
- Bluetooth is enabled on your Apple TV under Settings > Remotes and Devices.
- Both devices are on and nearby each other.
Automatic Connection Methods
There are two main methods to automatically connect AirPods to an Apple TV:
Using iCloud
If both your AirPods and Apple TV are signed into the same iCloud account, they can connect automatically.
To do this:
- Open the AirPods case near the Apple TV. A prompt to connect should appear on screen.
- Press the Play/Pause button on the Apple TV remote and select your AirPods from the menu.
Using Bluetooth
Even without the same iCloud account, your AirPods and Apple TV can connect via Bluetooth:
- Go to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Bluetooth on your Apple TV.
- Open the AirPods case near the Apple TV and hold the button on the back until the light flashes white. This makes the AirPods discoverable via Bluetooth.
- Select your AirPods from the “Other Devices” list.
Manual Connection
If automatic connection fails, you can still manually pair your AirPods with an Apple TV:
- Open the AirPods case near the Apple TV.
- Hold down the setup button on the back of the AirPods case until the status light flashes white.
- On your Apple TV, go to Settings > Remotes and Devices > Bluetooth.
- Select your AirPods from the list of devices.
- Confirm the connection by selecting Connect.
Tips for Using AirPods with Apple TV
Once connected, keep these tips in mind:
- Double tap an AirPod to play/pause the Apple TV.
- You can connect two pairs of AirPods to an Apple TV for shared listening.
- Use the Apple TV remote to adjust Spatial Audio or noise cancellation settings.
- If you have connectivity issues, try restarting or resetting both devices.
Fixing Connection Problems
Here are some troubleshooting steps if your AirPods won’t connect to an Apple TV:
Update Software
Make sure your Apple TV is updated to the latest tvOS version and your AirPods have the newest firmware.
Reset AirPods
Put both AirPods in the case, close the lid for 15 seconds, then hold the button on the back until the light flashes white. This resets and makes them discoverable again.
Forget Device
On your Apple TV under Bluetooth settings, select your AirPods then choose “Forget This Device”. Then retry pairing.
Restart Devices
Sometimes restarting your Apple TV and AirPods can resolve temporary connection issues.
If problems persist, you may need to contact Apple support for further troubleshooting assistance. Be ready to provide details on your devices, OS versions, and any error messages seen.
Conclusion
Connecting AirPods to an Apple TV takes just a few quick steps, with automatic pairing working seamlessly if signed into the same iCloud account. Even without this, manual Bluetooth pairing only takes a minute.
Once connected, AirPods unlock private, wireless listening for your Apple TV. Just be sure to keep them updated and know how to troubleshoot any connectivity issues. With a few simple tips, you can enjoy seamless AirPods integration with your Apple TV.
About the Author
I have over 10 years of experience using Apple products and troubleshooting connectivity issues with devices like AirPods and Apple TV. I stay up-to-date on the latest Apple firmware updates and best practices for integrating their ecosystem of products. Please reach out if you have any other questions!
