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Likely fix

Fix: Bluetooth accessory won’t connect

Most Bluetooth accessories fail to connect because they are not in pairing mode, have low battery, are connected to another device, or have a broken saved pairing.

Quick answer

Charge the accessory, put it in pairing mode, forget the old pairing, restart both devices, and pair again.

Important warning

Pairing mode is different from simply turning the accessory on.

Try this

  1. 1 Charge the accessory.
  2. 2 Turn the accessory off and on.
  3. 3 Put it into pairing mode.
  4. 4 Forget or remove it from Bluetooth settings.
  5. 5 Restart the phone, tablet, or computer.
  6. 6 Pair the accessory again.
  7. 7 Reset the accessory if it still will not connect.

Common causes

Accessory is not in pairing mode.

Battery is low.

Accessory is already connected elsewhere.

Saved pairing is corrupted.

Accessory needs a reset.

What to check next

  • Check battery level.
  • Check the pairing instructions for the accessory.
  • Check whether another device is already connected.
  • Check whether resetting the accessory helps.

FAQ

Why won’t my Bluetooth accessory connect?

It may not be in pairing mode, may have low battery, may already be connected elsewhere, or may need the saved pairing removed.

Is pairing mode the same as turning it on?

No. Many accessories need a separate long press or button combination to enter pairing mode.

Should I reset the accessory?

Reset it if charging, pairing mode, and forgetting the old pairing do not work.

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