AirPods won’t connect to a newly updated iMac

My AirPods stopped working on my MacBook after I updated my MacBook. How is it possible for a Bluetooth device to stop working with another device that connects to Bluetooth devices? This makes me think that Apple puts in their soft wear to make AirPods stop working with their devices so the consumer goes and buys the newer more expensive pair of AirPods. This is a big mistake for Apple because it would be smarter for people to buy non-Apple Bluetooth earbuds because they will actually work with your MacBook

[Re-Titled by Moderator]