AirPods: The ultimate guide

AirPods are the future of headphones, at least as far as Apple is concerned. Each one has a chipset that allows for easy pairing and rock-solid audio sync, an accelerometer to register tap controls, an infrared sensor so they know when they're in your ears and when they're out, and beam-forming mics so your voice comes through loud and clear.

AirPods Buyers Guide

Not sure whether AirPods are the headphones for you? Check out our reviews, buyers guide, and comparisons.

How to pair your AirPods

Airpods in case in someone's hand.

(Image credit: iMore)

Thanks to Apple's H1 custom chipset, connecting to your iPhone is a breeze, your Apple Watch is automatic, and even your iPad and Mac will share the pairing thanks to iCloud sync. Whether you opt for the AirPods 2 or AirPods 3, the pairing process is seamless. We also have a more in-depth How to pair your AirPods guide in case you need a little bit of extra help!

How to configure your Apple AirPods

Once connected, you can change your AirPods' name, set the double tap shortcut, toggle ear detection, and even choose how the mics work.

How to use your AirPods

Airpods 3 in case, product shot

(Image credit: Apple)

AirPods have no physical buttons. You can, however, double tap the entire earbud to either invoke Siri or to play/pause audio. With AirPods, you can also call out, "Hey, Siri" to get some help. If you use Siri you can use the power of your voice to play and control almost anything you can think of.

Take care of your AirPods

Once you've got a set of AirPods, make sure you take care of them! Here's how to clean your AirPods, make them your own, and even find them in strange places — like the snow!

AirPods 2 and AirPods earbuds side-by-side

(Image credit: iMore / Future)

AirPods in real life

How do AirPods fare when you use them with a non-Apple device, or while exercising? Here are some of our real-world tests with Apple's earbuds.

Airpods 3 With Case Right Earbud Lying In Front Of Case

(Image credit: Luke Filipowicz / iMore)

Troubleshooting AirPods

Having problems with your AirPods and their battery life? We've got a few suggestions.

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