Apple Support this week released a short video explaining exactly how to reset AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max back to factory settings — handy when you’re troubleshooting pairing problems or handing your buds to someone else.
Resetting is quick, but always unpair first — that prevents the earbuds from immediately reconnecting to your devices after the reset. Below you’ll find the exact steps Apple demonstrates in the support video:
How to Reset AirPods/AirPods Pro
- Make sure the AirPods are in their charging case and the lid is closed.
- Open the lid. If a Connect card appears on your iPhone, tap Close to dismiss it.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > [your name] and find your AirPods (or Settings > Bluetooth and locate them).
- Tap the AirPods entry, scroll down and tap on Forget This Device (or tap the More Info button in Bluetooth, and then tap Forget Device). Confirm the action. Your AirPods are now unpaired.
- With the AirPods in the case and the lid open, follow the reset method for your case type:
- If your charging case does not have a setup button on the back: ensure the status light is on, then double-tap the front of the case while it flashes white. Repeat the double-tap twice more (three double-taps total). The status light will flash amber briefly, then white — reset complete.
- If your charging case has a setup button on the back: open the lid and press & hold the setup button for ~15 seconds until the status light flashes amber, then white, indicating the AirPods have been reset.
How to Reset AirPods Max
- Charge the AirPods Max for a few minutes before starting.
- Make sure they’re out of the case and listed in Settings > [your name] (or in Bluetooth). Tap the entry, scroll down, and tap Forget This Device; confirm. They’re now unpaired.
- Press and hold the Noise Control button and the Digital Crown on the AirPods Max together for about 15 seconds until the LED near the bottom of the right earcup flashes amber and then white. Reset complete.
Why reset? It’s a quick first step when your AirPods won’t pair, behave oddly, or if you’re transferring them to a new owner. Apple also recently shared videos on removing and attaching AirPods Pro ear tips and how to clean the mesh grills, so this is the latest in a tidy string of practical support clips. For a visual demonstration of how to reset your AirPods, check out the Apple Support video below:
