To pair Bluetooth headphones with an Apple Watch, put the headphones in pairing mode, then open Settings on the watch, tap Bluetooth, and tap the headphones when they show up. AirPods you already set up with your iPhone work with your watch automatically. To remove headphones, tap the info button next to them in the Bluetooth list and choose Forget Device.
The pairing, audio output and volume steps come from Apple’s Apple Watch User Guide pages Connect Apple Watch to Bluetooth headphones or speakers and Choose an audio destination.
How to Pair Bluetooth Headphones With Apple Watch
- Put your headphones in pairing (discovery) mode. Apple says to follow the instructions that came with them.
- Open Settings on your Apple Watch.
- Tap Bluetooth.
- Tap the headphones when they appear in the list.
Result: the headphones connect, and audio from Music, Podcasts, Audiobooks and other apps plays through them instead of your iPhone.
Pairing tips
- Time it right. Pairing mode often only lasts a short time, so it suggests turning it on once you’re already on the watch’s Bluetooth screen.
- Look for the light. Many headphones show a flashing light in pairing mode. The watch keeps searching, so give it a moment.
- AirPods: Apple says AirPods you set up with your iPhone are ready to use with your watch. Just press play.
How to Choose Where Audio Plays
Apple says you can send audio to your iPhone, paired Bluetooth headphones or speakers, or the Apple Watch speaker:
- Press the side button to open Control Center.
- Tap the AirPlay button.
- Choose your headphones, your iPhone or the Apple Watch speaker.
You can also tap the AirPlay button on the play screens of the Music, Podcasts, Audiobooks and Now Playing apps. Apple notes that playing media through the watch speaker for 10 minutes may reduce battery life by about an hour.
How to Delete (Forget) Bluetooth Headphones
- Open Settings > Bluetooth on the watch.
- Tap the info button next to the headphones.
- Tap Forget Device and confirm.
Result: the headphones are removed from the watch’s list. Try forgetting and then re-pairing as a fix when headphones won’t connect.
How to Keep Headphone Volume Safe
Check the volume level
Apple says to press the side button to open Control Center while you’re listening, then tap the headphone volume button. A meter shows the current level, and you can adjust it with the controls or the Digital Crown.
Limit loud sounds
- Open Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Headphone Safety.
- Tap Reduce Loud Sounds, turn it on, and pick a level.
Result: the watch caps headphone audio at the decibel level you chose.
Apple Watch also sends a headphone notification and turns the volume down if you listen loudly for long enough to affect your hearing. To review them, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Headphone Safety and tap Last 6 Months.
If Your Headphones Won’t Connect
- Make sure the headphones are still in pairing mode.
- Restart the watch and the headphones.
- Forget the headphones on the watch, then pair them again.
- Check for software updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my iPhone nearby to use headphones with Apple Watch?
No. Once the headphones are paired to the watch, audio plays from the watch itself. This is handy for workouts or when your phone battery is dead.
Can I use any Bluetooth headphones?
Apple’s guide covers Bluetooth headphones and speakers in general, not just AirPods. Put them in discovery mode and pair them from the watch’s Bluetooth settings.
Related Guides
- How to start a running workout with a playlist
- How to change Apple Watch volume and haptics
- How to stop audio apps from opening on Apple Watch
Matthew Burleigh is the founder, head writer, and editor of Solve Your Tech, which he launched in 2012. He has written technology tutorials since 2008 and worked in IT since 2003, including small-business support, IT management, and consulting. He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science from Arizona State University.
Matthew writes practical guides for Windows, iPhone and iPad, Microsoft Office, Outlook, Google apps, and Android. Solve Your Tech’s guides are tested on current devices or checked against official product documentation, with clear steps, sources, and update dates.
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