Can't factory reset 3rd Gen AirPods

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Can't factory reset 3rd Gen AirPods

I have a pair of AirPods 3 that I got 2.5 years ago. Earlier today, I experienced an issue where my right AirPod wouldn't connect to my phone. I had resolved this problem before, so I started to reset my AirPods by following the steps here: How to reset your AirPods and AirPods Pro - Apple Support

The issue arises when I attempt to press and hold the setup button on the back of the charging case for 15 seconds. According to the article, the light should flash amber and then white after a few moments. However, when I attempt to do this, the light never flashes amber or white. Instead, the light starts off as green, then disappears for a few seconds, and then returns to green after a few moments. No matter what I do, I can't seem to get the light to flash amber or white, and as a result I can't reconnect my AirPods to my phone.

I've done all of the prerequisite steps, including "Forgetting my AirPods" from my phone, having my AirPods in the charging case, and opening the lid before holding the button. I've also done other things, like making sure my AirPods case is fully charged, and restarting my iPhone. Despite all of this, the light won't ever flash amber or white. What can I do in this situation?

Posted on Jul 9, 2025 9:40 AM

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Answer 1

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brbo

Level 8

38,635 points

Jul 9, 2025 9:40 PM in response to PatchouliKnowledge

Re: "No matter what I do, I can't seem to get the light to flash amber or white, and as a result I can't reconnect my AirPods to my phone"

Wondering if the device(s) you want to pair the AirPods 3 with have the newest compatible OS version installed,

(You can check in Settings > General > Software updates.

NB: It is wise to back up your data before updating the OS).

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Also, whether or not the AirPods have up-to-date firmware: About firmware updates for AirPods - Apple Support

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The linked article you provided also says what to do:

"If the status light doesn't flash white when you reset your AirPods

Put your AirPods in the charging case and close the lid for 20 seconds.
Open the lid of your charging case."

"For AirPods 1, AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods Pro 1, or AirPods Pro 2,

press and hold the setup button on the case again for about 15 seconds, until the status light on the front of the case flashes amber, then flashes white.

To reconnect your AirPods: With your AirPods in their charging case and the lid open,

place your AirPods close to your device, then follow the steps on your device's screen."

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