The automatic switching of AirPods in iOS 14 is annoying. Here’s how to turn it off

After upgrading to iOS 14 or MacOS 11 Big Sur you have probably experienced your AirPods randomly switching between your Apple devices. The new automatic gearbox feature is supposed to make your life easier, but for many, including yours, it’s annoying.

In theory, the new feature could identify which Apple device you want to use your AirPods with in real time. For example, if you are streaming music on your iPhone and you start playing a video on your iPad, the AirPods should switch to your iPad. But in reality, the function is somewhat delicate. I know I have had problems with my iPhone taking control of my AirPods connection when I unlock it while listening to music on my iPad.

Fortunately, there is a way to disable the feature. Just be sure to follow the steps outlined below on every Apple device you use your AirPods with, or at a minimum, the devices you don’t want your AirPods to switch between automatically.

Disable automatic shutdown on iPhone, iPad

With your AirPods connected to your iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings application.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Tap the “i” icon next to the name of your AirPods.
Four.Scroll down through the options until you find the option labeled Connect to this iPhone / iPad; touch it.
5.Please select When was you last connected to this iPhone / iPad then exit the Settings app.

Disable automatic shutdown on a Mac

Connect your AirPods to your Mac, then follow these steps:

1. Open System preferences.
2. Please select Bluetooth.
3. Click Choices next to the name of your AirPods.
Four.Click on the drop-down menu labeled Connect to this Mac.
5. Please select When did you last connect to this Mac and then click Done And near System preferences.

With auto-switching disabled on all your Apple devices, your AirPods will connect to the last device they were connected to when you placed them, just as they did before iOS 14. So if you want to start using them with another of your Apple devices, you can change them by selecting them in the AirPlay section of the Control Center.

For more AirPods tips, check out these general tricks for AirPods and AirPods Pro. We also have some specific tips for AirPods Pro. As to AirPods Maxbe sure to check out our full review.