How to Connect AirPods to PS5

Apple’s AirPods are incredibly popular earbuds, and many users are curious about connecting them to their PS5. Despite the PS5's advanced capabilities, it lacks native support for Bluetooth headphones. Fortunately, this limitation can be circumvented with the help of a compatible Bluetooth adapter.

Understanding the Compatibility Challenge

If you've tried connecting your AirPods to your PS5, you may have noticed the console recognizes them but doesn't establish a connection. This restriction is Sony’s way of controlling compatible accessories within the PS5 ecosystem, similar to Apple's product strategy. Thankfully, the right Bluetooth adapter can solve this problem.

Selecting the Right Bluetooth Adapter

Through our research, we found that Bluetooth adapters using Bluetooth 4.0 or earlier often struggle with connectivity. Adapters with Bluetooth 5.0 tend to connect effortlessly to your AirPods. One adapter we recommend is from Skull & Co. This adapter supports connecting two pairs of headphones simultaneously, allows for voice chat, and is compatible with other gaming consoles like the PS4 and Nintendo Switch.

Steps to Connect AirPods Using a Bluetooth Adapter

Connecting your AirPods to your PS5 via a Bluetooth adapter is straightforward:

1. Insert the Bluetooth adapter into the USB-C port on your PS5.
2. Open the AirPods case and press the button on the back to enter pairing mode.
3. Press the pairing button on the Bluetooth adapter and wait until the LED indicators stop blinking. Solid lights indicate a successful pairing.

Once the adapter's lights are steady, your AirPods should be connected to your PS5, ready to enhance your gaming sessions.

Using a Smart TV as an Alternative

If a Bluetooth adapter isn't an option, you can use your AirPods with your PS5 through a Smart TV. Most Smart TVs support Bluetooth accessories, allowing you to connect your AirPods to the TV instead of directly to the PS5.

Connecting AirPods to a Smart TV

While steps can vary by Smart TV model and manufacturer, the general process is:

1. Open the TV’s Settings menu.
2. Navigate to Devices, Audio, or Accessories.
3. Select the option to Scan for devices with your AirPods in pairing mode. Some TVs may automatically display available devices.
4. Set the TV’s audio output to your AirPods.

Following these steps, your TV should connect to your AirPods, allowing you to enjoy PS5 audio through your earbuds.

Benefits of Using AirPods with PS5

Using AirPods with your PS5 offers several advantages. Their wireless nature provides freedom of movement, and their high-quality sound elevates the gaming experience. Additionally, AirPods are lightweight and comfortable, making long gaming sessions more enjoyable.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the connection process, consider these troubleshooting tips:

• Ensure your Bluetooth adapter is Bluetooth 5.0 or higher.
• Make sure your AirPods are fully charged and in pairing mode.
• Restart your PS5 and the Bluetooth adapter to reset any connection issues.
• Check for firmware updates for your Bluetooth adapter or AirPods.

These steps should resolve most common connectivity issues.

Conclusion

Although the PS5 doesn't natively support Bluetooth headphones like AirPods, using a Bluetooth adapter or connecting through a Smart TV offers effective solutions. With the right setup, you can enjoy your AirPods with your PS5, enhancing your gaming experience with superior sound quality and wireless convenience. Whether you choose a Bluetooth adapter or Smart TV connection, these methods ensure you can maximize your AirPods while gaming on your PS5.