One of the most well-liked products from Apple is their line of AirPods headphones. However, some customers have reported that they can not use the AirPods with their MacBooks because the computers do not appear to recognize the headphones. There are several explanations for “Why Is My MacBook Rejecting My AirPods?”.
Reasons, why the MacBook is rejecting AirPods, include whether the MacBook is not updated to the latest OS software, or it is already paired with a different iPhone or iPad before attempting to pair with the MacBook Pro, or due to no Bluetooth discovery mode setting, and finally, the MacBook Pro may have a problem with the Bluetooth connection.
These are some reasons why your MacBook is rejecting connection to the AirPods. Then, I will try to explain it in more detail.
1. Make sure your MacBook is updated to the latest OS software.
Apple makes it simple for customers to keep the software on their Macbooks current by providing quick access to software updates. For example, users may find out what version of OS X they’re running by selecting “About This Mac” from the Apple menu. If a new update is available, installing it will be an option.
Updating the latest software is important for security reasons and because it can improve performance and fix any existing bugs or glitches. In some cases, an update may even add new features or functionality.
For the best experience, it’s always recommended to keep your MacBook updated to the latest OS software.
2. Try pairing your AirPods with a different iPhone or iPad before attempting to pair them with the MacBook Pro.
If you’re having trouble getting your AirPods to work with your iPhone or iPad, try pairing them with a different device before attempting again. Sometimes the problem is with the device, not the AirPods.
Overall, if your AirPods are not connecting to your Mac, there are a few possible explanations. First, try pairing your AirPods with a different iPhone or iPad before attempting to pair them with the MacBook Pro.
Make sure that both devices are updated to the latest software. If that doesn’t work, you may try pressing and holding the button on the charging case’s back for around fifteen seconds or until the LED light starts flashing amber. This should force your AirPods to reconnect. Resetting the AirPods will do this.
To get help with your AirPods, if none of these options work, you may need to take them to an Apple Store.
3. MacBook not connecting to Airpods due to no Bluetooth discovery mode setting
Apple’s MacBook computers are some of the most popular globally, but a recent problem has been discovered with connecting to AirPods wireless headphones. As reported by many users on online forums and social media, the issue seems to be that there is no Bluetooth discovery mode setting on Mac laptops, which means AirPods cannot be automatically connected like they can on other devices.
For some reason, AirPods work perfectly fine when connected to an iPhone or iPad that has this setting enabled, but it is not present on MacBooks. A possible solution suggested is to use a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse instead of AirPods, as those devices can still connect without the discovery mode setting.
Or, if you need to use AirPods with your MacBook, one workaround is to go into System Preferences and manually connect them each time you want to use them.
4. The MacBook Pro may have a problem with the Bluetooth connection.
If you’re struggling to get your new AirPods to work with your Macbook, there may be a solution. Several users report that their Macbooks are rejecting the AirPods, but an update to their firmware may fix the issue.
The problem with Macbooks rejecting Airpods seems to be related to Apple’s recent decision to disable Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) in certain models of MacBooks.
While you may not agree with Apple’s recent decision to disable or enable some functionality that allows users to pair their branded gadgets with other accessories like AirPods with other devices, this has caused some MacBook users problems.
However, this problem is related to Apple’s decision to disable the ability to pair AirPods with other devices and not a bug or design flaw in the AirPods themselves.
Apple MacBook Air 13.3-inch Retina Display – Intel Core i5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD

How to fix Macbook rejecting my Airpods
The problem may be something as simple as a loose connection. First, check the magnetic snap on your AirPods case to ensure it’s secure. Then, if you’re still seeing an error message, try reinserting the AirPods’ USB-C charging cord and then reinserting the headphones again.
If these steps do not work, it might be time for a replacement! But first, contact Apple or visit an Apple Store to see what they say about your situation. Today’s Macs are designed with great care, so they’ll feel like new even after their repair.
Important: Before you replace your AirPods, find out why they won’t connect in the first place. Usually, it’s because one or both of your AirPods are missing.
If your AirPods’ battery isn’t charging, try using a different USB-C cable. If the problem happens with another cable, try charging someplace else. For example, if you usually charge from your laptop, try charging with a wall charger or an iPhone adapter.
If neither cable nor charging location is the problem, connect them again using their case’s magnetic snap. If reseating the case’s snap doesn’t solve your problem, try taking each AirPod out and then putting it back in to reseat its magnet.
If you have a new Macbook Pro with Touch Bar and you see “No Signal” messages on your AirPods, there are some things you can try: Charge your AirPods separately to see if they can pair successfully.
- Then, turn on “Allow this device to wake this computer” by selecting System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Allow for this device > AirPods in the left column and Allow under the Action pop-up menu.
- Try using AirPods again after plugging in the charging wire to your Mac and AirPods. Check that it’s the correct charging cord (not one from an older Mac). There could be some issues with your old Mac, so take it back to the store where you purchased it.
See an Apple specialist if none of those steps doesn’t solve your issue. As soon as you provide them with the information they need, your issue will be fixed. Ensure you’re getting the right help from the right person, not trying to sell you some upgrade.
Conclusion
The MacBook not connecting to Airpods is a common problem that can be fixed by checking the Bluetooth settings and repairing them again if necessary. if you are struggling to connect your MacBook to your AirPods, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Checking the Bluetooth settings on your smartphone is a popular solution to this issue. If you want to get your MacBook and AirPods to work together right now, try these suggestions:
- Turn on both devices and activate Bluetooth before continuing.
- Next, open the Settings app on your MacBook and select “Bluetooth.” Under “Devices,” you should see your AirPods listed.
If they are not listed, make sure that they are within range of your computer and that your Mac’s microphone is not muted. Making sure that your MacBook and Airpods are in discoverable mode is the next step.
- You will need to go into your MacBook’s settings and make sure that “Bluetooth” is set to “On.” If you haven’t done so before, you’ll need to enable it in your Mac’s preferences.