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Can you connect AirPods to Nintendo Switch?

If you own an iPhone, chances are you have an AirPods as well. However, many wonder if they can connect it to their Nintendo Switch to play games. It's a valid concern since other consoles like Xbox don't support Bluetooth wireless audio devices but that's not the case with the Switch.

You will be glad to know that your handheld device supports AirPods, including the premium AirPods Pro 2. This article will show you how to connect your AirPods to Nintendo Switch.

Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and solely reflect the writer's opinions.


How to connect AirPods to Nintendo Switch?

Apple AirPods 3rd Gen (Image via Apple)
Apple AirPods 3rd Gen (Image via Apple)

Apple AirPods transmit audio wirelessly via Bluetooth technology, which is also present in the Nintendo Switch. However, the support for adding Bluetooth audio devices wasn't available by default. It was later added to the Nintendo Switch in 2021 with the system firmware version 13.0.0, so ensure your handheld is running on that version or higher. Else, this method won't work.

It is also a good measure to update the Switch to the latest version for better compatibility. Once done, follow the steps below to connect your AirPods to Nintendo Switch:

  • Visit System Settings of your Nintendo Switch.
  • Scroll down and tap on Bluetooth Audio.
  • Next, tap on Add Device.
  • A new screen will appear where the Switch will search for all Bluetooth devices in its range.
  • Next, open the lid of the AirPods case, and it will appear on the Nintendo Switch.
  • Tap on the AirPods' name which appears on the handheld and connect to the pair of AirPods.

You can now pop the buds into your ears and start playing multiplayer co-op games like It Takes Two.


How do AirPods perform in Nintendo Switch?

Nintendo Switch with removable JoyCon controllers (Image via Nintendo)
Nintendo Switch with removable JoyCon controllers (Image via Nintendo)

The Apple AirPods work in Nintendo Switch the way it works on any other Bluetooth device. However, some of the advanced features of AirPods, including Spatial Audio, battery health, Hey Siri, and more, don't work on the Switch or other devices. Those features will remain operable on Apple Devices only and nowhere else.

Even without them, the AirPods is still a fantastic audio device and can easily outperform others on the market.

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