You do not know How to play audio on your AirPods? Apple AirPods have become one of the most popular audio devices worldwide, thanks to their ease of use, sound quality, and compatibility with most products in the Apple ecosystem. But for many users, the question is clear: How can I play audio correctly on AirPods? Although it may seem simple, there are multiple ways to do it and many additional features that amplify its usefulness.
In this guide we will see all the options available for play sound on your AirPods, how to get the most out of them on both iPhone and Android, and even how to locate them if you lose them. We'll also explore advanced features, such as listening to different songs in each ear or amplifying ambient sound.
Play audio from an iPhone or iPad
To listen to audio normally from an Apple device, simply open a music, video, or streaming app. AirPods connect automatically if they're already paired with your iCloud account.. However, you can force a manual connection:
- Open Control Center on your iPhone or iPad.
- Click on the AirPlay icon.
- Select your AirPods from the list of available devices.
Once this is done, all sound from the device will be directed to your AirPods. Remember You can even control the volume from the headphones themselves. if you use second-generation models or later (AirPods Pro or AirPods Max).
By the way, if you are a loyal Airpods user and are wondering when we will have news, we leave you this current article in which you can learn more about the launch of the AirPods Pro 3 in 2026.
Use the “Live Listen” feature
A lesser-known but very useful option is the “Live Listening” feature. This tool turns your iPhone or iPad into a microphone that streams sound directly to AirPods.It is designed to help in noisy environments or for people with hearing difficulties.
To activate it:
- Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize controls.
- Adds the “Hearing” feature.
- Open Control Center and tap the ear icon.
- Select “Listen Live.”
Place the device near the sound source, and The iPhone's microphones will capture the audio that will be sent to your AirPods in real time..
Play a different song in each ear
It may sound strange, but It is possible to listen to two different songs on each AirPodThis is achieved through an app called SplitCloud Double Music, available for both iOS and Android.
This app works as a dual player and allows you to send a different audio track to each stereo channel (left and right). This way you can put one track on the left channel and another on the right. It is not only compatible with AirPods, but with any Bluetooth headset.
Its functions include:
- Independent controls for each song.
- Individual volume per track.
- Loop or shuffle playback.
SplitCloud pulls music from SoundCloud or from local files on your phone. It is a fun feature that will surprise more than one.
Find your AirPods by sound
Losing your AirPods can be a nightmare, but Apple has thought of everything. Thanks to the app “Where is it?”, you can see the last known location of your AirPods on a map, and even make them make a sound to help you find them.
This sound isn't particularly loud, but it's loud enough to locate your headphones if they've fallen between the couch cushions or under a piece of furniture. To use this feature:
- Open the “Where Is?” app on your iPhone.
- Select your AirPods from the device list.
- Click the “Play sound” option.
If your AirPods are in the charging case and not connected, the command will be marked as pending until one of the earbuds is removed. You can also play the sound on just one of your AirPods, ideal if you've only lost one.
What to do if you can't play sound
There are times when, even though the AirPods are connected, the sound does not play correctlyThis can happen if they're paired with another device, if there's a Bluetooth issue, or if audio keeps being sent to the device's speaker.
Some basic solutions:
- Reset your AirPods by placing them in the case for a few seconds.
- Turn Bluetooth off and back on.
- Make sure they are selected as the sound output in the audio settings.
Location by last connection
If your AirPods are out of range or have no battery, the “Where Are They?” app will help you find them. It will show you the last location they were online at to one of your Apple devices. This can be a great help in knowing where to start looking.
The information includes the exact time and location the connection was lost, although it may not be accurate if the device had a poor signal. If you've lost just one, you can also purchase AirPods separately from Apple Support.
For those who tend to fall asleep while watching TV shows or listening to music, this feature is essential. Often, The AirPod ends up embedded between cushions or under the sofa, and the beep emitted from the app serves as a perfect guide to find it.
AirPods on non-Apple devices
Although they are designed for the Apple ecosystem, AirPods can also be used on Android phones or PCs with BluetoothSimply put them in pairing mode (by holding down the back button on the case) and pair them from your device's Bluetooth settings.
On Android, some features like automatic detection when you take them out of your ear or Siri control will not be available, but The sound quality and connection remain excellentFor Windows, make sure your audio output is set correctly to avoid playback issues.
It is possible that, on devices outside the Apple ecosystem, the experience may not be so rich, but you'll still enjoy sound quality that's far above average.
With all these features available, AirPods are solidifying their position as extremely versatile earbuds for all types of users. From listening to music in a classic style to using apps that let you experiment with sound or help you find them if they're lost, they represent a tool that goes far beyond simple wireless audio.
Whether you're looking to take advantage of their iOS compatibility, locate lost AirPods, try creative playback methods, or simply get the most out of them, this guide will help you All the keys you need to fully enjoy your Apple wireless headphones, no matter what device you use. Now you know how to play audio on your AirPods.
