When Apple released its latest iPhones without the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, it created an outrage that could be heard from almost all users.
The reason behind the removal?
The headphone jack would be replaced by Apple's wireless earphones called AirPods.
For Apple, the future is wireless. Hence, the decision to do away with the headphone jack. AirPods are Apple's second wearable product next to the Apple watch. These contain a W1 chip, which handles the communication between the iPhone and the headset, and infrared sensors that instantly detect once you put them on your ears.
There were a couple of hiccups and delays after Apple made the big announcement in October. Finally, the AirPods went on sale at its online store three months after these were launched together with the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. The wireless device will start arriving at Apple's physical stores next week.
Pairing AirPods With An iPhone, iPad, Or Mac
The AirPods are ridiculously easy to pair with your iPhone, through the help of the W1 chip. Once you open the AirPods' charging case and unlock your iPhone's screen, a message will pop up on your phone asking you to pair the AirPods to your iPhone. Just tap on "Connect" and you're done. It's that easy - no need to scroll and navigate to your phone's settings.
Pairing AirPods With An Apple Watch
Once you have successfully paired the AirPods to your iPhone, they will automatically pair with your Apple Watch as well.
Pairing AirPods With An Apple TV
To begin pairing, open your AirPods' charging case. Press and hold the pairing button located at the back of the case. From your Apple TV, click on the "Settings" menu. Click on "Remotes and Devices" and choose "Bluetooth." Choose the name of your device from the list to connect.
Pairing AirPods With An Android or Windows Device
Since AirPods is using Bluetooth technology, that means you can easily pair them with a non-Apple device. To begin the manual pairing process, open the lid of your AirPods' charging case. Press and hold the pairing button at the back of the case for a couple of seconds.
Once you see a light blinking between the earbuds, let go. Launch the Bluetooth settings of the Android or Windows device you are going to pair the AirPods with. The AirPods will then show up on the pairing menu screen of your phone or tablet. Hit select to confirm the pairing, and then follow the succeeding prompts.
You can now enjoy wireless listening with the AirPods. At $159 a pop, just be careful not to lose them as they are pretty expensive.
