How to Connect Airpods and Earbuds at the Same Time: A Guide

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Ever wished you could share your music or listen to different audio streams using both your AirPods and another pair of earbuds simultaneously? Perhaps you want to watch a movie with a friend, each enjoying the audio through their preferred listening device, or maybe you simply want to compare the sound quality of your AirPods with a different brand of earbuds without constantly switching between them.

While Apple doesn’t natively offer a straightforward feature to connect two different types of Bluetooth audio devices at once on a single iPhone or iPad, it’s definitely possible to achieve this using a few clever workarounds and third-party apps. This guide will explore the various methods available, including the use of Bluetooth audio transmitters and apps that can help you enjoy audio simultaneously on different devices. We’ll break down the steps, discuss the limitations, and provide tips to ensure a seamless listening experience. Let’s get started!

We will explore different methods and their pros and cons, so you can choose the best solution for your needs. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a movie buff, or simply someone who likes to share audio, you’ll find a solution here.

Understanding the Limitations and Possibilities

Before diving into the methods, it’s essential to understand the limitations of connecting multiple Bluetooth audio devices to a single iPhone or iPad. Apple’s iOS and iPadOS operating systems are primarily designed to connect to one Bluetooth audio device at a time. This design choice simplifies the user experience, but it also means that connecting two different pairs of earbuds, like AirPods and another brand, directly isn’t possible through the built-in Bluetooth settings.

However, the good news is that there are workarounds. These methods typically involve either using a Bluetooth audio transmitter, which acts as a bridge between your device and multiple audio devices, or leveraging third-party apps that can route audio to multiple outputs. Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll explore in detail.

Native Bluetooth Limitations

The core limitation stems from the way iOS and iPadOS handle Bluetooth connections. The operating system is designed to manage a single active audio connection at a time. Trying to connect a second pair of earbuds directly through the Bluetooth settings will often disconnect the first pair. This design prioritizes simplicity and avoids potential audio conflicts. It’s crucial to acknowledge this limitation to understand why specific workarounds are necessary.

The Role of Bluetooth Transmitters

A Bluetooth audio transmitter is a device that receives audio from your iPhone or iPad (typically via a 3.5mm audio jack or USB-C port) and transmits it to multiple Bluetooth audio devices simultaneously. Think of it as a splitter for your audio. This is often the most reliable method, as it bypasses the limitations imposed by the operating system. Bluetooth transmitters can connect to multiple devices at once.

Third-Party App Solutions

Some third-party apps are designed to route audio to multiple Bluetooth devices. These apps effectively act as audio mixers, allowing you to select different audio outputs. The effectiveness of these apps can vary, and they may introduce some latency or require specific setup configurations. We will examine some of these options in detail.

Method 1: Using a Bluetooth Audio Transmitter

This is often the most reliable and straightforward method for connecting AirPods and another pair of earbuds simultaneously. A Bluetooth audio transmitter essentially acts as a hub, taking the audio signal from your iPhone or iPad and broadcasting it to multiple Bluetooth devices. Let’s walk through the steps:

Step 1: Choosing a Bluetooth Audio Transmitter

When selecting a Bluetooth audio transmitter, consider the following factors:

Compatibility: Ensure the transmitter is compatible with your iPhone or iPad. It should support Bluetooth 5.0 or later for the best performance and range.
Connectivity Options: Look for a transmitter that offers multiple input options, such as a 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C, or even optical audio.
Number of Devices Supported: Check how many Bluetooth devices the transmitter can connect to simultaneously. Most transmitters support at least two devices, but some can handle more.
Battery Life: If you plan to use the transmitter wirelessly, consider its battery life.
Audio Quality: Some transmitters support high-quality audio codecs (like aptX or aptX HD) for improved sound.

Popular brands include TaoTronics, Avantree, and 1Mii. Read reviews to compare the different models and features.

Step 2: Connecting the Transmitter to Your Iphone/ipad

There are typically two ways to connect the transmitter to your device:

Wired Connection: Use a 3.5mm audio cable (if your iPhone/iPad has a headphone jack, or use a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter) to connect the transmitter to the headphone jack. Alternatively, use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter if your iPad/iPhone uses USB-C. This is a direct, reliable connection.
Wireless Connection (if supported): Some transmitters can connect to your device via Bluetooth. This is less common, as the transmitter’s primary function is to transmit audio to other Bluetooth devices. This option is not generally recommended as it relies on a Bluetooth connection for its input and output.

For best results, use a wired connection to avoid potential Bluetooth interference.

Step 3: Pairing Your Airpods and Other Earbuds with the Transmitter

Put your AirPods and your other earbuds into pairing mode. Refer to the instructions that came with your specific earbuds on how to do this. Then, put the transmitter into pairing mode and follow the device’s specific instructions for connecting. The transmitter will search for and connect to your Bluetooth devices. Most transmitters have buttons or indicators to show when devices are successfully connected.

Important Note: Some transmitters have different pairing modes (e.g., one for pairing a single device, another for pairing multiple devices). Consult the transmitter’s manual for instructions specific to pairing multiple devices.

Step 4: Testing the Connection

Once both your AirPods and other earbuds are connected, play some audio on your iPhone or iPad. You should be able to hear the audio through both sets of earbuds simultaneously. Adjust the volume on each device (AirPods and other earbuds) to your preferred levels. The volume control on your iPhone/iPad will control the overall volume, but you might also have independent volume controls on the earbuds themselves.

Pros of Using a Bluetooth Audio Transmitter

Simplicity: Relatively easy to set up and use.
Reliability: Generally, a stable and consistent connection.
Compatibility: Works with any Bluetooth earbuds.
Audio Quality: High-quality audio is generally maintained.

Cons of Using a Bluetooth Audio Transmitter

Additional Hardware: Requires purchasing a separate device (the transmitter).
Wired Connection: If using the 3.5mm connection, it requires a wired connection to your device (unless your transmitter supports Bluetooth input, which isn’t generally recommended).
Battery Life: The transmitter needs to be charged (if it’s a wireless device).

Method 2: Using Third-Party Apps

While not as universally reliable as using a Bluetooth audio transmitter, some third-party apps claim to allow you to route audio to multiple Bluetooth devices. This method leverages the app’s ability to act as an audio mixer, sending the audio stream to multiple outputs. However, the success of this method can vary, and it often depends on the app and the specific devices you’re using. Let’s explore some options.

Step 1: Research and Choose an App

Several apps claim to offer this functionality. Some popular options to investigate include:

Bluetooth Audio Streamer: This app is specifically designed for streaming audio to multiple Bluetooth devices.
AmpMe: While primarily designed for creating group listening experiences, AmpMe can sometimes be used to stream audio to multiple Bluetooth devices.
Other Audio Mixer Apps: Search the App Store for “audio mixer” or “multi-output audio” apps. Read reviews carefully to assess the app’s reliability and user experience.

Important: Before committing to an app, read reviews carefully and check for compatibility with your iPhone/iPad and your specific earbuds. Free trials are often available, allowing you to test the app before purchasing a full version.

Step 2: Download and Install the App

Download and install the chosen app from the App Store. Follow the on-screen instructions for installation.

Step 3: Configure the App and Connect Your Devices

Open the app and follow its specific instructions for connecting your AirPods and other earbuds. This process will vary depending on the app, but typically involves the following steps:

Enable Bluetooth: Ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone or iPad.
Pair Devices: Put your AirPods and other earbuds into pairing mode, and then connect them to the app. The app should display a list of available Bluetooth devices.
Select Audio Outputs: Within the app, select both your AirPods and your other earbuds as audio outputs.
Adjust Settings: Some apps allow you to adjust audio settings, such as volume levels for each device or audio quality.

Important: Pay close attention to the app’s instructions and troubleshooting tips. The app might require specific settings to function correctly.

Step 4: Test the Connection and Audio

Play some audio on your iPhone or iPad and check if you can hear it through both sets of earbuds. Adjust the volume levels within the app and on your earbuds to your preferred settings. Pay attention to any audio latency (delay) issues. Some apps might introduce a slight delay between the audio on different devices.

Pros of Using Third-Party Apps

No Additional Hardware: Doesn’t require purchasing a separate device.
Potentially Convenient: If the app works well, it can be a convenient solution.

Cons of Using Third-Party Apps

Reliability: The success of this method varies greatly depending on the app and the devices used.
Latency: May introduce audio latency or delays.
Compatibility: Compatibility issues are common. The app might not work with all devices or iOS versions.
Audio Quality: Audio quality can sometimes be compromised.
Cost: Some apps require a subscription or a one-time purchase.

Method 3: Using Built-in iOS Features (limited)

While iOS doesn’t directly support connecting multiple different Bluetooth audio devices, there are a few built-in features that can be used in specific scenarios. These methods are limited, but they might be useful in certain situations.

Using ‘share Audio’ (airpods to Airpods/beats)

Apple’s ‘Share Audio’ feature allows you to share audio with a second pair of AirPods or compatible Beats headphones. This feature only works with other Apple or Beats headphones. Here’s how to use it:

Connect Your AirPods: Connect your AirPods to your iPhone or iPad as you normally would.
Open Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen (on iPhones with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom (on iPhones with Touch ID) to open Control Center.
Tap the AirPlay Icon: Tap the AirPlay icon (the one with the concentric circles) in the Music control panel.
Select ‘Share Audio’: If another compatible pair of AirPods or Beats headphones is nearby and in pairing mode, you’ll see an option to ‘Share Audio’. Tap this option.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the second pair of headphones.

Limitations: This method only works with AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and compatible Beats headphones. It does not work with other brands of earbuds. It’s also limited to sharing audio from a single source; you can’t, for example, play one song on your AirPods and another on the shared headphones.

Using a ‘speaker’ and Bluetooth Earbuds

Although you cannot directly connect two different types of Bluetooth headphones simultaneously, you can sometimes use a combination of a Bluetooth speaker and Bluetooth earbuds. This is a workaround, not a true simultaneous connection, but it can achieve a similar result. The setup involves:

Connect Your Bluetooth Earbuds: Connect your preferred Bluetooth earbuds to your iPhone or iPad.
Connect a Bluetooth Speaker: Connect a Bluetooth speaker to your iPhone or iPad.
Play Audio: Play audio on your device. You can then select where your audio is playing via the AirPlay icon in Control Center. You can choose to play to both your Bluetooth earbuds and your Bluetooth speaker.

Limitations: Audio quality can suffer depending on the speaker and the earbuds. This is not true simultaneous audio; there might be noticeable delays. This is not the ideal solution but can work in a pinch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to troubleshoot them:

Connectivity Problems

Devices Not Pairing: Ensure that both sets of earbuds and the transmitter (or the app) are in pairing mode. Check the transmitter’s manual or the app’s instructions for specific pairing steps. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your iPhone or iPad.
Interference: Bluetooth signals can be affected by interference from other devices. Try moving the devices closer together and away from other electronic devices.
Range Issues: Make sure you are within the Bluetooth range of the transmitter or your iPhone/iPad.

Audio Quality Issues

Distorted Audio: Check the volume levels on all devices (iPhone/iPad, transmitter, and earbuds). Adjust the volume gradually to avoid distortion.
Low Audio Quality: Ensure that your transmitter supports high-quality audio codecs (like aptX or aptX HD), and that your earbuds also support those codecs.
Sound Cutting Out: Make sure your devices are close enough and have a strong Bluetooth signal.

Latency Issues

Latency (audio delay) is a common issue when using third-party apps or some Bluetooth transmitters. Here’s how to address it:

Try a Different App/Transmitter: Some apps or transmitters are better at minimizing latency than others. Experiment with different options.
Minimize Distance: Keep the devices as close together as possible to reduce signal delay.
Check for Interference: Interference can sometimes contribute to latency. Make sure there are no other devices emitting radio waves nearby.

Tips for a Better Experience

Here are some tips to improve your experience when connecting AirPods and other earbuds simultaneously:

Prioritize a Bluetooth Audio Transmitter: For the most reliable and consistent results, a Bluetooth audio transmitter is generally the best option.
Choose High-Quality Components: Invest in a good-quality transmitter and earbuds for the best audio experience.
Test Before Use: Test the connection and audio quality before you need to use it.
Keep Devices Charged: Ensure that all devices (iPhone/iPad, transmitter, and earbuds) are fully charged.
Read the Manuals: Consult the manuals for your transmitter and earbuds for detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Update Firmware: Keep the firmware of your Bluetooth devices and the apps you use up to date.

Conclusion

Connecting AirPods and other earbuds at the same time on your iPhone or iPad is achievable, although it requires understanding the limitations of the built-in Bluetooth capabilities. While Apple’s native features don’t offer direct simultaneous connections, several workarounds exist. Using a Bluetooth audio transmitter is generally the most reliable method, providing a stable and high-quality audio experience.

Third-party apps can also provide solutions, although their effectiveness varies. The key is to select the right method based on your needs and budget. Remember to troubleshoot common issues like connectivity problems and latency. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking advantage of the tips provided, you can successfully enjoy audio simultaneously on multiple devices, enhancing your listening and sharing experiences.

Recommended Products

SaleBestseller No. 1