Can't connect to AirPods max on iPhone or Mac

I cannot connect to my AirPods max on either computer or phone. Has worked perfectly previously. I have tried to "forget device", and then the AirPods are recognized by the iPhone when holding close. However when I am asked to "Press and hold the noise canceling button" nothing happens, and it doesn't connect.


Also, I have encountered several people saying it sounds like I am in a bathroom when using as headset. If I switch to AirPods Pro, the problem is not there, so it is related to the AirPods Max.


Does this sound like a hardware problem, or do you have any suggestions ?

iPhone 11 Pro

Posted on Mar 15, 2021 2:00 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 21, 2021 5:07 PM

I had the same problem and after discussing with Apple support in an online support chat they advised me to return the AirPods Max to be repaired. They’re less than a month old and we’re very expensive for a pair of headphones which are completely unresponsive and can’t connect to my iPhone or any other Bluetooth source. Posted a similar question to yours and no one bothered replying. I’m now worried this is a fundamental issue with the AirPods Max. Like yourself I couldn’t reset the product and forgetting the AirPods Max did not resolve the problem. I think Apple have to look at this issue as I’m really unhappy I’ve had to send a pair of headphones for repair after less than a month. An option to refund would have been better. I’ve now purchased a set of AirPods Pro at even more expense as I didn’t want to be without headphones and they connect instantaneously with no difficulties.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 21, 2021 5:07 PM in response to Tarkus123

I had the same problem and after discussing with Apple support in an online support chat they advised me to return the AirPods Max to be repaired. They’re less than a month old and we’re very expensive for a pair of headphones which are completely unresponsive and can’t connect to my iPhone or any other Bluetooth source. Posted a similar question to yours and no one bothered replying. I’m now worried this is a fundamental issue with the AirPods Max. Like yourself I couldn’t reset the product and forgetting the AirPods Max did not resolve the problem. I think Apple have to look at this issue as I’m really unhappy I’ve had to send a pair of headphones for repair after less than a month. An option to refund would have been better. I’ve now purchased a set of AirPods Pro at even more expense as I didn’t want to be without headphones and they connect instantaneously with no difficulties.

Mar 16, 2021 11:26 AM in response to Tarkus123

Hi Tarkus123,


It sounds like you're experiencing issues with your AirPods Max and can't reset them. We're glad you've joined us in Apple Support Communities, and we can provide some assistance.


We think a reset is a great idea for both issues. You mentioned holding the noise control button, are you also holding the Digital Crown until the LED flashes amber? There are a few ways you can reset AirPods Max. You can see the different reset methods along with a diagram in How to reset your AirPods Max.


If the issue remains after following those steps, let us know if you tried unpairing them from your iCloud account with the steps above in addition to the button press reset.


We hope that helps with your question and take care!

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Can't connect to AirPods max on iPhone or Mac

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