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How to Connect Two Different AirPods: A Comprehensive Guide

Let’s cut straight to the chase: connecting two different AirPods models (for example, an AirPod Pro with a standard AirPod) to the same device simultaneously for simultaneous audio listening is not natively supported by Apple. Each set of AirPods needs to be paired independently and managed separately. However, there are workarounds and ways to share audio, which we will delve into.

Understanding the Limitations

Before exploring the potential workarounds, it’s crucial to understand why Apple doesn’t natively support this. AirPods are designed to work in stereo pairs, providing a balanced and immersive audio experience. Mixing different models with potentially varying sound profiles, latency, and features (like noise cancellation) can disrupt this experience. While the idea of sharing music with a friend, each with their preferred AirPod type, is appealing, the current ecosystem doesn’t cater to this directly.

Workarounds and Solutions: Sharing the Audio Love

Although directly connecting two different AirPod models to the same device for simultaneous, synchronized playback isn’t possible, several alternatives allow you to share audio with a friend using two sets of AirPods:

1. Audio Sharing on Compatible Apple Devices (The Best Option):

This is the most seamless and user-friendly method, but it requires an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch that supports the feature. Here’s how it works:

Connect your own AirPods to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch as usual.
Open Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner (on iPhones with Face ID) or up from the bottom edge (on iPhones with a Home button).
Long-press the audio control in the upper-right corner.
Tap “Share Audio”.
Bring the second set of AirPods (the ones you want to share with) near your device. The AirPods case should be open.
Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the second pair of AirPods. The second user will need to tap “Connect” on their device if prompted.
This method allows both users to control the volume independently. It’s the cleanest and most reliable solution for sharing audio between two pairs of AirPods, regardless of whether they are the same model or not.

2. Using Third-Party Apps (Limited Functionality):

Several third-party apps claim to enable simultaneous audio output to multiple Bluetooth devices. These apps often work by routing the audio output to both the built-in speakers and the Bluetooth devices. However, the effectiveness and stability of these apps vary greatly.

Potential Issues: Latency problems, audio quality degradation, and compatibility issues are common. Furthermore, these apps often come with ads or require subscriptions. Research thoroughly and read reviews before downloading any third-party app.
Caveat: It’s important to note that Apple’s operating system isn’t designed for this type of functionality, so relying on third-party apps can be unpredictable.

3. Multiple Devices, Multiple AirPods:

This is perhaps the most obvious, but sometimes the simplest solution is best. Instead of trying to connect both sets of AirPods to one device, each person can listen with their own device and own set of AirPods. You could both be watching the same movie on your respective iPads, each with your own audio experience. This avoids any compatibility issues or potential audio syncing problems.

4. Using a Bluetooth Transmitter (For Non-Apple Devices):

If you’re trying to share audio from a non-Apple device (like a TV or a non-Bluetooth audio source), you can use a Bluetooth transmitter. This device plugs into the audio output (e.g., a headphone jack or RCA connectors) and transmits the audio signal wirelessly via Bluetooth.

How it Works: Pair each set of AirPods with the Bluetooth transmitter separately. Some transmitters support simultaneous connections to multiple devices.
Limitations: The range and audio quality will depend on the quality of the Bluetooth transmitter. Latency can also be an issue.

Important Considerations

Bluetooth Version: Ensure your devices support a recent version of Bluetooth (5.0 or later) for improved connectivity and reduced latency.
Proximity: Keep the devices relatively close together to maintain a stable connection.
Interference: Avoid sources of interference, such as Wi-Fi routers, microwave ovens, and other Bluetooth devices.
Battery Life: Streaming audio consumes battery power. Make sure both sets of AirPods are adequately charged.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding connecting two different AirPods to the same device, to enhance your understanding.

1. Can I connect an AirPod (1st generation) and an AirPod Pro to the same iPhone?

No, you cannot simultaneously connect an AirPod (1st generation) and an AirPod Pro to the same iPhone for synced audio. The Audio Sharing feature on iPhones (and iPads) allows you to connect two pairs of AirPods, but not to treat one AirPod from one set and one AirPod from another set as a stereo pair.

2. Is it possible to use one AirPod from each set to listen in stereo?

No, mixing AirPods from different sets (even if they are the same model) to create a stereo pair isn’t supported. Each AirPod is designed to pair with its corresponding AirPod in the charging case.

3. Will future software updates enable connecting two different AirPod models?

While Apple often introduces new features through software updates, there’s no guarantee they will add support for connecting two different AirPod models for simultaneous audio. It’s best to rely on the current available solutions.

4. Why is there latency when using third-party apps for audio sharing?

Latency occurs because the app needs to process and re-route the audio signal to multiple Bluetooth devices. This introduces a delay, which can be noticeable when watching videos or playing games.

5. What is the range of the Audio Sharing feature on Apple devices?

The range is typically the same as the standard Bluetooth range, which is around 30 feet (10 meters) in open space. However, obstacles like walls and furniture can reduce the range.

6. Does Audio Sharing work with other Bluetooth headphones besides AirPods?

No, the Audio Sharing feature is exclusively designed for AirPods and certain Beats headphones that utilize Apple’s H1 or W1 chip for seamless pairing.

7. Can I control the volume of each set of AirPods independently when using Audio Sharing?

Yes, when using the Audio Sharing feature, each user can control the volume of their own AirPods independently. This is one of the key advantages of using this method.

8. What Apple devices support Audio Sharing?

Audio Sharing is supported on the following devices:

iPhone 8 and later
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) and later
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) and later
iPad Air (3rd generation) and later
iPad (5th generation) and later
iPad mini (5th generation) and later
iPod touch (7th generation)

Your device must be running iOS 13.1 or later, or iPadOS 13.1 or later.

9. Will Audio Sharing drain my iPhone’s battery faster?

Yes, using Audio Sharing will consume more battery power on your iPhone, as it’s actively streaming audio to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.

10. Is there a way to calibrate the audio latency when using third-party apps?

Some third-party apps offer latency adjustment settings. However, the effectiveness of these settings can vary. Experiment with different settings to find the best balance.

11. Can I use Audio Sharing with live audio, like a microphone?

No, Audio Sharing is primarily designed for sharing playback audio. It’s not typically used for live audio input, such as from a microphone.

12. What should I do if I encounter connectivity issues when using Audio Sharing?

If you experience connectivity problems, try the following:

Ensure both sets of AirPods are fully charged.
Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your device.
Restart your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.
Reset the AirPods by holding the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber, then white.
Update your device to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS.

While connecting two different AirPods for simultaneous listening presents a challenge, the Audio Sharing feature, using separate devices, or exploring specific third-party solutions can provide workable alternatives. Remember to weigh the pros and cons of each approach to find the solution that best fits your needs.