The easiest way to use your AirPods with your Apple Watch is by connecting them to your iPhone first. This makes your AirPods available to all Apple devices logged into iCloud with the same Apple ID. If you haven’t set your AirPods up with your iPhone yet, here are the steps to do so:
- Make sure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and update your iPhone to iOS 17 or whichever version applies to your model.
- Go back to your home screen.
- Place your AirPods (while in the charging case) close to your iPhone.
- Open the AirPods charging case.
- Tap the Connect button on the setup popup that appears on your iPhone.
- Follow the instructions on your screen to configure your AirPods (e.g., allow Siri to announce calls and notifications and subscribe to Apple Music).
- Hit Done to complete the setup.
If you prefer to pair your AirPods directly with your Apple Watch, here’s how:
- Open the Control Center on your Apple Watch.
- Tap on the Audio Output icon at the bottom.
- Hit the Connect a Device button to open the Bluetooth menu.
- Bring your AirPods (while in their charging case) near the Apple Watch.
- Open the AirPods charging case.
- Long-press the button on the back of the case until the front LED starts flashing.
- Back on the Bluetooth menu on your Apple Watch, tap on your AirPods. The two devices should now be connected.