AirPods Randomly Connect: 6 Possible Reasons and How to Fix Them
The AirPods are known for their seamless pairing with Apple products. But AirPods can randomly connect to other devices easily. However, they conveniently switch between devices thanks to the Automatic Switching feature.
However, there is a minor drawback to this convenient connectivity. The AirPods may occasionally connect to a paired device while in use or during charging, which can be frustrating. In such cases, you might even contemplate getting your AirPods replaced.
Nevertheless, this issue can typically be attributed to a software glitch or a faulty sensor, implying that a solution is available. We have compiled six potential reasons behind the random device connections and corresponding remedies. Let’s explore them in detail!
1. AirPods Randomly Connect Due to Open Case Lid
One of the frequent causes for AirPods randomly connecting to devices is an improperly closed charging case lid. Under normal circumstances, when you place the AirPods in the case and close the lid, they should commence charging while simultaneously disconnecting from any previously paired device.
However, if the lid is not securely closed, the AirPods may fail to register that they are inside the case. Consequently, they may either remain connected or form haphazard connections with devices.
Regrettably, this can occur even when the lid appears to be closed. A minute, inconspicuous gap could hinder the AirPods from establishing a complete connection with the charging unit.
How to fix it:
Ensure the charging case lid is securely closed
Rectifying this issue is as simple as visually inspecting the charging case to verify that nothing impedes proper closure. You can also perform the following checks to identify any problems with the case lid:
- Gently shake the case after closing it to determine if the lid swings open too easily.
- Examine the case for misalignments on the hinges that may cause the lid to wiggle. Accidental drops of your AirPods case could lead to misalignments, hindering the correct charging of your AirPods.
- Move the lid back and forth slightly, without applying force, to assess whether it feels loose or produces a clicking sound.
If you observe that the lid is indeed loose or the case shows signs of damage, we recommend visiting an Apple Store for a thorough check-up of your AirPods. Failure to address the random connection problem could persist, risking the potential loss of your AirPods.
2. Randomly Connect Because of Faulty Cable
Similarly, an impaired charging cable can hinder your AirPods’ ability to detect their presence within the charging case.
When a charging cable malfunctions, it fails to supply power to the charging case, leaving the AirPods uncharged. Consequently, they stay active and continue connecting to nearby devices. This issue can arise from cable damage or improper insertion into the charging port.
How to fix it:
To troubleshoot, try using a different Lightning cable to ascertain whether the problem lies with the charging case or the original cable. If the AirPods function normally with the new cable, it suggests that the original cable was indeed the culprit.
If your cable is still within the 1-year warranty and exhibits no visible external damage, you can request a replacement from Apple. Another option is to buy a new Lightning cable from trusted online retailers, ensuring you steer clear of counterfeit products that may pose risks to your device.
3. AirPods Randomly Connect Due to Dirty Case
An additional potential cause of your AirPods connecting to devices while in the case is the presence of dirt in either the case or the charging port. Over time, lint and dust particles can accumulate and obstruct the case contacts or charging port, interfering with the charging process.
Consequently, the AirPods remain in an “always on” state, ready to establish connections. Properly cleaning the case and charging port prevents the AirPods from randomly connecting to devices.
How to fix it:
Optimal Solution: Keep your AirPods’ firmware updated by following these steps:
- Place your AirPods in the charging case.
- Connect the charging case to a power socket.
- Ensure your iOS device is connected to the internet and position the case nearby.
- The firmware update will download and install automatically.
Alternate Solution: Hard reset your AirPods to resolve issues with unexpected device connections:
- Place both AirPods in the charging case and open the lid.
- Press and hold the Setup button on the back of the case for 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber, then white.
- Close the lid to complete the reset.
4. Faulty Automatic Ear Detection
AirPods feature a smart functionality called Automatic Ear Detection, enabling effortless audio switching when you wear them. This intelligent feature also pauses audio playback when you remove the AirPods and resumes it upon reinsertion.
However, if the sensors in your AirPods experience glitches, they may incorrectly detect that they are being used, resulting in unexpected connections. Simply put, your AirPods may erroneously register as being in your ears, even when not.
How to fix it:
To avoid unexpected AirPods connections caused by sensor errors, a recommended approach is to deactivate Automatic Ear Detection. By doing so, your AirPods will no longer attempt to connect to your device when not in use.
To disable Automatic Ear Detection, follow these straightforward steps:
- Wear your AirPods and access the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone.
- Locate your AirPods in the list of devices and tap the small “i” icon adjacent to their name.
- Scroll to the bottom of the settings page and switch off the toggle next to Automatic Ear Detection.
5. It might be Automatic Switching
Automatic Switching is a convenient AirPods feature that enables seamless device transitions for users with multiple devices linked to the same Apple ID. It allows AirPods to switch between devices, like effortlessly shifting from an iPad for music playback to an iPhone for answering calls.
However, this feature can lead to unintended AirPods connections. For instance, if you’re using your AirPods with your iPhone and open your iPad, they may unintentionally connect to the iPad instead of remaining connected.
How to fix it:
- Wear your AirPods and go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the “i” icon next to your AirPods.
- Select “Connect to This iPhone/iPad.”
- Choose “When Last Connected to This iPhone/iPad.”
6. Last Resort: Contact Apple Support
If you have tried all the previous solutions without success and your AirPods continue to connect randomly, it may indicate a hardware issue. In this case, reach out to Apple Support for assistance. Their representatives can help diagnose and resolve the problem. If your AirPods are under warranty, they may be eligible for replacement.
Contact Apple Support through their website for phone or live chat options.
Conclusion
We hope our earlier recommendations have helped resolve your AirPods issues. Whether it was a software glitch or a charging case obstruction, following the suggested steps should have addressed the problem and given you peace of mind. Your AirPods should now maintain a reliable and consistent connection without random device connections.
If you need further assistance or encounter additional difficulties, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Learn about AirPods of How to Connect AirPods to Other Devices.
