Simple Steps to Connect a Replacement AirPod

Easy-to-follow steps to connect an AirPod replacement with the other

Written by Nicole Levine, MFA

Last Updated: January 30, 2026

When you receive a replacement AirPod or AirPod Pro from Apple, you'll need to pair it with your existing AirPod so your headphones will work as intended. Fortunately, connecting your new AirPod only takes a few minutes, and it's very easy to do. We'll show you how to sync, pair, and connect your replacement AirPod using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch.

Things You Should Know

Make sure both AirPods are in the charging case for at least 15 minutes.
Go to Bluetooth on your phone and forget the previous connection to your AirPods.
Pair them again with your phone or tablet so they both work.

Steps

The replacement AirPod and the original AirPod should both be in the case. Connect the charging case to a power source and let your AirPods charge together for about 15 minutes before you continue.^{[1]
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You'll find this gray gear icon on the Home screen and/or in your App Library.

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It's in the first group of settings.^{[2]
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You'll see it under "My Devices."^{[3]
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A confirmation message will appear.^{[4]
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It's at the bottom of the screen. This tells your iPhone or iPad to forget your old AirPods.^{[5]
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After a few moments, the status light will flash amber.^{[6]
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Press and hold the button on the back of the AirPods case. You can release the button once the light starts flashing white.
- If the light never turns white, plug the charging case into a power source, close the lid, and press and hold the button on the case for a few seconds. When it starts flashing white, release the button, and open the lid.
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Go to the Home screen on your iPhone or iPad. As long as you are holding the case near your iPhone or iPad, you should see an animation asking you to connect your AirPods.^{[7]
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- Bring your AirPods closer to the iPhone or iPad with the lid open if you don't see the prompt.
Your AirPods will now pair together with your iPhone or iPad.^{[8]
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Your replacement AirPod will now work with your existing AirPod.^{[9]
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