How to Fix Bluetooth Not Working

Difficulty: Easy

Time needed: 5-15 minutes

What you'll need: Your device and the Bluetooth accessory you're trying to pair

Step 1: Turn Bluetooth off and on again

This resets the Bluetooth connection. Go to your device settings and toggle Bluetooth off, wait 5 seconds, then turn it back on.

Step 2: Put the accessory in pairing mode

Most Bluetooth devices need to be in "pairing mode" to be discovered:

Headphones/earbuds: Usually hold the power button for 5-7 seconds until a light flashes blue/red
Speakers: Press and hold the Bluetooth button until you hear a sound or see a flashing light
Keyboards/mice: There's usually a pairing button on the bottom or back

Step 3: Remove old paired devices

If you've previously paired the device, remove it first:

iPhone: Settings > Bluetooth > tap the (i) next to the device > Forget This Device
Android: Settings > Connected devices > Previously connected > tap the gear icon > Forget
Windows: Settings > Bluetooth & devices > click the three dots next to the device > Remove device
Mac: System Settings > Bluetooth > hover over the device > click (x) to remove

Step 4: Restart both devices

Turn off both your phone/computer AND the Bluetooth accessory completely. Turn the accessory on first, put it in pairing mode, then turn on your device and try connecting.

Step 5: Update Bluetooth drivers

Windows: Open Device Manager, expand Bluetooth, right-click your adapter, select Update driver
Mac: System updates include Bluetooth updates — go to System Settings > General > Software Update
Phone: Update to the latest iOS or Android version

If that didn't work

Some Bluetooth devices can only pair with one device at a time. Make sure the accessory isn't already connected to a different phone, tablet, or computer. Also check that you're within 30 feet (10 meters) of the device.

Pro tip

When pairing new devices, do it in a room with fewer active Bluetooth devices. Too many Bluetooth signals can cause interference and make initial pairing difficult.