You’re capable of pairing your AirPods Max with any device, be it a PC, laptop, PlayStation, or modern Smart TV. If you’re in no mood for Bluetooth linking, you can also use Apple’s Lightning to Audio cable. There are many ways to establish a connection; just choose one that serves your purpose the best.
How to Put AirPods Max in Pairing Mode
Setting up your AirPods Max in pairing mode is easy as one, two, three. This is the case if you’re using it with Apple devices as they have automatic syncing features. You’ll only need to get your Max headphones out of their case, and it’ll do all the work.
If it doesn’t connect automatically with your Apple product, follow the instructions below:
- Unlock your Apple device and navigate to ‘Bluetooth’ to turn it on.
- Return to Home Screen and take your AirPods Max out of the Smart Case.
- Hold the headphones next to the Apple device you want to connect with.
- Wait for the set-up animation to appear, indicating connection success.
Another way is to connect your headphones manually. This alternative also works well with other non-Apple devices such as Android phones.
You can do this by going to the ‘Settings’ tab then navigate to ‘Bluetooth’. Manually choose your AirPods Model and watch out for the light indicator. If there are no flashes, press and hold the Noise Control button on your headphones for seven seconds.
This will prompt a connection between your devices, so choose ‘Connect’. Then follow the instructions indicated on the gadget.
How Do I Switch Between Devices on AirPods Max?
Your premium headphones aren’t just premium because of their name. It has elite smart features, including automatic device switching. If you’re listening using your iPad and a call comes through your phone, expect your AirPods Max to prioritize the call.
That’s right — it is advanced enough to redirect on different devices. This is part of Apple’s charm, making their devices user-friendly. However, here are some conditions for this automatic switch feature to work:
- Your Apple device, be it an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or TV, should have the latest version of OS installed.
- Your devices should be signed in with the same Apple ID using two-factor authentication.
Sadly, this genius auto-switch works only on Apple devices. Android users have yet to avail this perk, but you can’t say for sure in the future.
How Do I Stop AirPods Max Auto-Switching?
Auto-switch is a convenient feature that maximizes the connection between different Apple devices. However, it can be annoying when you’re in the middle of intense gameplay or a cliffhanger episode. Luckily, Apple gives you a choice to stop this automatic switching:
For iPhones, iPads, and iPods Touch
- Once your AirPods Max is connected to your device, navigate to Settings. Then go to the Bluetooth tab.
- Select the More Info (i) button next to your headphones model.
- Tap ‘Connect to this iPhone’ or depending on your connected device.
- Select ‘When Last Connected to this iPhone’ (iPad or iPods Touch).
For Mac models
- While your AirPods Max is connected to your Mac, go to Apple Menu.
- Find ‘System Preferences’ and choose Bluetooth.
- Tap on the Options button right next to your AirPods model.
- Check out the ‘Connect to this Mac’ menu.
- Choose ‘When Last Connected to this Mac’.
For Apple TV
- With your AirPods Max connected to the Apple TV, go to Settings.
- Navigate to the ‘Remotes and Devices’ and select Bluetooth.
- Turn off the ‘Suggest Nearby AirPods’ option.
How Do I Manually Switch Between AirPods Max Devices?
You can still navigate through devices even when you’ve turned off automatic switching. Apple prioritizes a user-friendly interface enabling you to switch manually between gadgets. Here’s how:
On iPhones, iPads, or iPod Touch
- Depending on your gadget model, go to your device’s Control Center. You can do this by either swiping up or swiping down.
- Tap and hold the audio card in the upper-right part of the Control Center.
- Choose the blue button on the top right corner. Then select which device you want to connect, specifically, your AirPods Max.
On Mac Models
- Navigate on your menu bar and click on the Volume Control sound icon.
- Choose AirPods under the ‘Output’ category.
The sound controls on your Mac are located in the Control Center if you’re using macOS Big Sur or later versions.
On Apple TV
- Sign in to your iCloud account using the Apple TV.
- Navigate to the Settings menu and select ‘Remotes and Devices’.
- Tap on Bluetooth and choose AirPods Max.
- Select ‘Connect’ and check if your headphones are under the ‘My Devices’ category.
How Do I Use AirPods Max on a PC?
You can use your AirPods Max on a PC like any Bluetooth headset. Your headphones will provide crisp sound whether you’re editing or absorbed in gameplay.
Connecting it via Bluetooth will give you more freedom but may cause audio latency. This is normal and will easily be resolved if you use a wired AirPods Max to PC connection instead.
How to Pair AirPods Max With Windows
Apple started out as a brand that values exclusivity. However, they have improved and enabled non-MacOS users to partake in their technology.
As such, pairing your AirPods Max with Windows Max will be a walk in the park. This is as long as your Windows device has Bluetooth functions available:
- Right-click the Windows icon on the bottom left corner of your computer. Select ‘Settings’ and then ‘Devices’. You can also search it directly on the start menu.
- Select the ‘Add Bluetooth or other Device” and tap on ‘Bluetooth’.
- If you have the Bluetooth icon pinned on your taskbar, click it. Then select ‘Add a Bluetooth Device’.
- To prepare your AirPods Max for Windows pairing, hold the Noise Control button for about 7 seconds. Wait a bit and watch as your earphones appear on the list of available devices.
- Select your AirPods Max and wait for the notification “Your device is ready to go!”
The catch with this Apple to non-Apple connection? You can’t utilize all the AirPods Max’s excellent features, such as Spatial Audio.
However, there are H1 processors on both sides of the earphones. With these, you’ll get the best of its noise cancellation and transparency mode perks.
How to Connect AirPods Max to PC With Cable
One alternative is connecting your AirPods Max via wires if your PC does not come with Bluetooth. However, you will need a Lightning to Audio Cable as an intermediary to do this.
If you’re looking for it in the box in which your headphones were delivered, you’ll be disappointed. Apple did not include it in the bundle, so you’ll need to purchase it separately. It’s available on their website for a whopping $35.
It’ll be easy to establish a solid connection when you get your Lightning to Audio Cable on hand. Simply attach the lightning end on your headphones — the hole is on the bottom of the right earpiece. Then attach the other audio end on your PC jack.
Apple only manufactures its Lightning to Audio Cable on a 3.5 mm size, so make sure your computer’s ports are compatible. It’s not bad to be careful, as the headphones themselves cost a lot already.
How Do I Use AirPods Max Mic on a PC?
When you connect your AirPods Max to your PC, it will function just like you would any headphones. This means you can utilize the functions of the nine microphones installed in your luxury headphones. Eight of these microphones are for Active Noise Cancellation – eliminating background sounds.
However, there are times these microphones don’t automatically sync with windows. When this happens, don’t panic and instead get to the main root of the problem. Here are several ways to tackle it:
Set your Max headphones as the default communication device
- Step 1: Look for the sound icon on your PC and right-click on it. Select the ‘Sounds’ option.
- Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Playback’ tab and right-click on your AirPods Max headset. Tap ‘Set as Default Communication Device’.
- Step 3: Go to the ‘Recording’ tab and right-click on your AirPods Model. Then click ‘Set as Default Communication Device’.
Choose the ‘AirPods Hands-Free’ option as a playback device when you’re on any Windows application.
Update Windows Bluetooth Drivers
- Step 1: Press Windows + R simultaneously on your keyboard. This opens the Run box.
- Step 2: Type’ devmgmt.msc’ and enter or click ‘OK’.
- Step 3: Click on Bluetooth, this will expand the tab.
- Step 4: Right-click on your Bluetooth adapter and select the ‘Update Driver’ option.
- Step 5: Once you see a pop-up window, select the ‘Search automatically for drivers’.
- Step 6: Follow your Windows on-screen instructions. Once done, restart your PC.
- Step 7: Check your AirPods Max by connecting it the usual way via Bluetooth.
Install your Windows Updates
- Step 1: Press Windows logo + I on your keyboard simultaneously to open settings. Navigate to ‘Update and Security’.
- Step 2: Go to the Windows Update category and tap ‘Check for Updates’. This will invoke Windows to download the patches automatically.
- Step 3: Confirm the update by looking for the “You’re up to date” notification.
- Step 4: Restart your PC and check for your AirPods Max on the list of connected devices.
You can try one of these steps or all of them to eliminate any problems with your microphones fully. You’d inevitably need updated drivers and software for the AirPods Max to function well. This is to increase compatibility between different OS.
How Do I Connect My AirPods Max to My Laptop?
There’s virtually no difference between whether you plan to connect your AirPods Max to a PC or a laptop. You’ll need to update all your drivers and software to assure no future complications will occur. Also, as long as the Bluetooth is functioning well, you can link your headphones easy-peasy.
However, if the Bluetooth features are non-functional, you’ll need a Bluetooth dongle. This accessory allows you to connect your luxury headphones wirelessly to your laptop.
How to Connect AirPods Max to Mac
Your AirPods Max connects automatically to recognized devices within the vicinity. You can make this automatic connection if you set up your headphones with the same Apple ID as your Mac. Take note that you’ll need to have the macOS Big Sur 11.1 or later updates installed.
There are times your Mac won’t automatically connect with your AirPods Max. Here’s what you should do when this happens:
- Wear your Max headphones properly to activate them. Your AirPods Max has optical sensors that detect whether they’re worn over the head or the neck.
- Navigate your Mac to the Menu bar. Select the ‘Bluetooth’ option, or tap on the Volume Control.
- Choose AirPods Max from the options. You can now enjoy your AirPods Max to Mac wireless connection.
How to Connect AirPods Max to Macbook
On the off chance that you didn’t see your AirPods Max in the Bluetooth or Volume Control tab, you’ll need to do additional steps. You can approach it this way:
- Find the System Preferences category on your Mac. This is located on the Apple menu.
- Click on Bluetooth and make sure that it is on and functioning.
- Get hold of your headphones and long-press the Noise Control button for a few seconds. You’ll know when to stop when the light flashes white.
- Wait a few seconds and select your AirPods Max in the list of devices.
- Click ‘Connect’ and watch as your headphones pair with your Macbook.
Sometimes, you’ll still hear the sounds coming from speakers instead of your headphones. To remedy this, just navigate on the Bluetooth or Volume Control menu. Then check whether your AirPods Max is chosen as the output device.
How Do I Connect My AirPods Max to My PlayStation?
Gone are the days where you’ll need to stick to one brand for all your tech needs. If you’re an avid PlayStation fan but only have an AirPods Max stashed, then you can definitely use them together.
To do so, there is one crucial thing to be aware of. Sony’s PlayStation can’t connect to other Bluetooth-enabled headphones other than its own brand. This is because some headsets, like your AirPods Max, have a higher level of latency.
The higher the latency, the greater the delay in sound during your gaming experience. If you’re still eager to pair your Max headphones with PlayStation wirelessly, you’ll need a Bluetooth dongle. Check out how to do it:
- Plug your Bluetooth dongle into your PlayStation console, monitor output, or the controller. This will depend on the type of dongle you’ve bought.
- Make sure your Bluetooth dongle is active by observing the flashing lights. Then pair the dongle with your Max by pressing the Noise Control button for seven seconds.
- If they’re synced successfully, you’ll see the flashing light indications on both accessories.
- Navigate to ‘Settings’ and then ‘Devices’ as soon as both your devices are paired.
- Select the ‘Audio Devices’ tab and go to ‘Input Devices’. Then go to the ‘Headset Connect to Controller’ and set Output Device to ‘USB Headphones’.
- Set the output to ‘Headphones’ and tap on ‘All Audio’.
Some prefer an all-in audio connection without mic functions. To do this, you’ll only need to remove step 5 from the instructions.
How Do I Use AirPods Max on PS5?
You can use AirPods Max on PS5 just like you would any other regular Bluetooth headphones. As long as you got your dongle, it’s sure to work perfectly fine. Granted, there will be a few sound lapses here and there due to latency, but it’ll do.
However, it’s a different case if you don’t have a dongle and have no plans on getting one. In this scenario, you’ll only have one choice if you want to pair your Max headphones with your PS5. This is through the Lightning to Audio Cable made by Apple for this scenario.
The cable costs quite a lot, but it will help you link your headphones to the console. You’ll be a little restricted because the line is only 1.2 meters long (3.9 feet). It’s quite worth it, though, because wired connections give you a more immersive sound experience.
How to Use AirPods Max With Xbox
True, your AirPods Max is a wireless headset, and the Xbox can’t cater to Bluetooth connections. The Xbox Series X does have Bluetooth, but its used to pair to a wireless controller.
With this in mind, it seems impossible to connect your Max headphones with your gaming console. However, one tiny thing will turn the tables around: Bluetooth dongles. Simply pair it up with your AirPods Max as you do with other wireless connections.
Once connected, you can now enjoy unparalleled sound quality as you bust through your games. This way, you’ll also maximize the use of your headphones, making it worth its price of over $500.
How Do I Connect My AirPods Max to My TV?
Setting up a connection between AirPods Max and Smart TV is possible through modern tech. With the help of a Bluetooth receiver, you can definitely pair it up with whichever brand you prefer.
Apple has come so far with the inclusivity mindset, so you won’t have to worry about staying loyal to one brand. It’s great if you prefer the HD quality of Android but want the sound quality the AirPods offer. You can get the best of both worlds by buying a few accessories.
How to Connect AirPods Max to LG TV
There are several ways to pair your AirPods Max to your LG TV. You can either use the TV or Headset pairing features. Streaming apps can also serve as an intermediary for TV to Max headphones connection.
Here’s how to connect AirPods to LG TV using different approaches. Just choose which one’s the most convenient for you:
TV Pairing
- Turn your LG TV on and navigate to the Settings tab.
- Go to ‘Advanced Settings’ and look for the ‘Sound Menu’.
- Tap on ‘Sound out’ and then navigate to the LG Sound Sync Bluetooth.
- Select ‘Detect’ and wait for your AirPods Max to reflect. Once it’s listed on the screen, pair it with your LG TV.
Headphones Pairing
- If your AirPods Max is brand new, they’ll automatically connect to the TV.
- If they don’t, long-press the call button. This will activate its Bluetooth function.
- If the blue light is flashing through the LED in half-second intervals, the devices are pairing.
Roku Streaming Stick +
- Download the Roku application on your mobile device.
- Plugin the Roku into the HDMI port.
- Connect your AirPods Max to your phone.
- Open the Roku application and choose the ‘Headphones’ category.
Just a reminder that using Roku will only provide you with a streaming option. Hearing selected programs run on the Roku application is the best bet you can do with this.
Fire TV Stick
- Set your AirPods Max on pairing mode.
- Navigate to the Fire TV menu and go to Settings.
- Tap on ‘Controllers and Bluetooth Devices’ and click ‘Other Bluetooth Devices’.
- A drop-down menu will show where you can locate your AirPods Max model. Connect and wait for a few seconds to pair.
Fire TV stick is Amazon’s very own streaming cube. It’s convenient but will only let you stream audio from connected programs. You can’t use your Max headphones’ Volume Control when you use this. It’ll cause you extra effort when you adjust with the Fire TV remote, but it’s nothing if you want to pair with LG badly.
How to Pair AirPods Max With Apple TV
Apple connects well with other Apple devices, as seen when setting up AirPods Max to Apple TV pairing. The company takes note of other brands, but nothing compares to connecting two Apple techs together.
If you are using the same Apple ID across devices, automatic pairing will happen, and you won’t break a sweat. However, on the rare chance that auto-linking does not occur, here’s one way to manually do so:
- Press and hold the TV icon on your remote to navigate to the Control Center page.
- Select the Airplay icon on the middle bottom row. You can quickly locate it as it is the icon flashing blue.
- Select your AirPods Max for pairing under the ‘Headphones’ category.
