How to Connect AirPods to Apple TV

Apple Devices & AirPlay Updated 2026-06-04

AirPods pair with Apple TV for private, late-night listening. If they are signed in to the same Apple ID they connect almost instantly.

Connect AirPods to Apple TV

  1. Sign in to the Apple TV with the same Apple ID your AirPods use, and they may appear automatically.
  2. Otherwise, put the AirPods in pairing mode by holding the case button until the light flashes.
  3. On Apple TV, go to Settings › Remotes and Devices › Bluetooth.
  4. Select your AirPods from the list to connect.
  5. Switch audio quickly by holding the TV button on the Siri Remote and choosing your AirPods.

If audio drops, keep the AirPods charged and within range, and restart the Apple TV to refresh the Bluetooth link.

Frequently asked questions

They may be connected to another device. Put them in pairing mode and select them under Bluetooth on the Apple TV.

Yes, Apple TV 4K supports sharing audio to two sets of compatible AirPods at once.
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