The Microsoft Surface lineup has been a game-changer in the world of personal computing, offering a range of powerful and versatile devices that cater to different needs and preferences. Meanwhile, Apple’s AirPods have revolutionized the way we listen to music and take calls on-the-go. But can these two tech giants come together in perfect harmony? Specifically, can you use AirPods with Microsoft Surface devices?
The Short Answer: Yes, You Can!
The good news is that, yes, you can use AirPods with Microsoft Surface devices. Both the Surface laptops and tablets, as well as the AirPods, use Bluetooth technology to connect to devices. As long as your Surface device has Bluetooth capabilities, you can pair your AirPods with it and enjoy a seamless listening experience.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There are some caveats to consider, and we’ll dive deeper into the details below.
Setting Up AirPods on Your Surface Device
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s cover the basics. To set up your AirPods on your Surface device, follow these steps:
Step 1: Make Sure Bluetooth is Enabled
On your Surface device, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices. Toggle the switch to turn Bluetooth on.
Step 2: Put Your AirPods in Pairing Mode
Open the lid of your AirPods case, then press and hold the button on the back until the status light starts flashing white. This indicates that your AirPods are in pairing mode.
Step 3: Pair Your AirPods with Your Surface Device
Go back to your Surface device’s Bluetooth settings, and you should see “AirPods” listed under Available Devices. Click on it to start the pairing process. You might be prompted to enter a code on your Surface device; if so, enter “0000” and click Pair.
Tips and Tricks for a Seamless Experience
Now that you’ve successfully paired your AirPods with your Surface device, here are some tips to help you get the most out of this tech duo:
Use the Windows 10 Bluetooth Settings App
The built-in Bluetooth settings app on Windows 10 allows you to customize your AirPods experience. You can adjust the audio quality, toggle noise cancellation, and even rename your AirPods.
Take Advantage of Surface’s Audio Enhancements
The Surface line is known for its impressive audio capabilities, and you can further enhance your listening experience by enabling Dolby Atmos on your device. To do this, go to Settings > Devices > Sound, then toggle the switch under “Dolby Atmos for headphones”.
Use the AirPods App on Windows
While the AirPods app is primarily designed for iOS devices, there’s a Windows version available that allows you to customize your AirPods experience on your Surface device. You can download the app from the Microsoft Store and use it to adjust settings, check battery life, and more.
Potential Issues and Workarounds
As with any technology, there may be some hiccups when using AirPods with your Surface device. Here are some potential issues you might encounter and some workarounds to help you overcome them:
Audio Delay or Lag
One common issue is audio delay or lag, which can be frustrating when watching videos or playing games. To mitigate this, try the following:
- Ensure that your AirPods firmware is up to date.
- Disable and re-enable Bluetooth on your Surface device.
- Try resetting your AirPods by pressing and holding the button on the back of the case for at least 10 seconds.
Interference from Other Devices
If you’re experiencing interference or dropped connections, try moving your Surface device and AirPods away from other Bluetooth devices. You can also try resetting your AirPods and pairing them again with your Surface device.
Battery Life Concerns
AirPods are notorious for their limited battery life, but there are ways to extend their usage:
- Make sure to charge your AirPods regularly.
- Use the AirPods app on Windows to check battery life and optimize your listening experience.
- Consider investing in a wireless charging case for your AirPods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using AirPods with Microsoft Surface devices is a viable and seamless experience. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy high-quality audio, noise cancellation, and convenient features like hands-free calling. While there may be some minor issues to contend with, these can be easily overcome with a few troubleshooting tricks up your sleeve.
If you’re a Surface user looking for a hassle-free audio experience, or an AirPods enthusiast eager to explore new device compatibility, the Surface-AirPods combo is definitely worth exploring.
What makes Surface and AirPods a perfect pair?
The Surface and AirPods combination is a match made in tech heaven because of their seamless integration and compatibility. Both devices are designed to work together effortlessly, allowing users to enjoy a streamlined and efficient workflow. The Surface’s Windows operating system is optimized to work with Apple’s AirPods, making it easy to pair and connect them.
Furthermore, the Surface’s sleek design and portability make it the perfect companion for the wireless and compact AirPods. Whether you’re working on the go or relaxing at home, the Surface and AirPods combo provides a premium and hassle-free experience. With features like instant pairing, easy switching between devices, and exceptional sound quality, this tech duo is hard to beat.
Can I use AirPods with any Surface device?
Yes, you can use AirPods with any Surface device, including the Surface Laptop, Surface Book, Surface Pro, and Surface Go. As long as your Surface device is running Windows 10 or later, you can pair your AirPods with it. To pair your AirPods, simply open the charging case, put the devices near each other, and follow the on-screen instructions.
It’s worth noting that some Surface devices, like the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, have Bluetooth 5.0, which provides a more stable and reliable connection with your AirPods. However, even devices with Bluetooth 4.2, like the Surface Go, can still connect to AirPods without any issues.
How do I pair my AirPods with my Surface device?
To pair your AirPods with your Surface device, start by opening the charging case and putting the AirPods inside. Then, open the Bluetooth settings on your Surface device and select “Add a device” or “Pair a device.” Your AirPods should appear in the list of available devices. Select them, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.
Once paired, you can use your AirPods to listen to music, watch videos, or take hands-free calls on your Surface device. You can also use the Windows 10 settings app to customize your AirPods experience, such as setting the audio output to stereo or mono.
Can I use one pair of AirPods with multiple Surface devices?
Yes, you can use one pair of AirPods with multiple Surface devices. Apple’s W1 chip in the AirPods allows for easy switching between devices, making it convenient to use your AirPods with multiple Surface devices. To switch between devices, put the AirPods back in their charging case, open the case near the new Surface device, and select the AirPods as the audio output device.
This feature is especially useful if you have multiple Surface devices, such as a Surface Laptop for work and a Surface Pro for personal use. You can easily switch between devices without having to pair and unpair your AirPods every time.
Do AirPods work with all Surface Pen features?
While AirPods work seamlessly with most Surface features, they don’t support all Surface Pen features. Specifically, the Surface Pen’s audio features, such as audio playback and voice dictation, are not compatible with AirPods. However, you can still use your AirPods to listen to music, watch videos, and take calls on your Surface device.
Despite this limitation, the Surface Pen still provides a premium and intuitive experience when paired with your Surface device. You can use the Pen to take notes, draw, and navigate your Surface device with ease, even if you’re using AirPods for audio.
Are AirPods compatible with Surface’s Continuum feature?
Yes, AirPods are compatible with Surface’s Continuum feature. Continuum allows your Surface device to adapt to different screen sizes and devices, providing a seamless transition between laptop and tablet modes. When you’re using AirPods with your Surface device, Continuum will automatically adjust the audio output to the AirPods, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted experience.
With Continuum, you can easily switch between laptops, tablets, and even smartphones, and your AirPods will automatically connect and adjust to the new device. This feature is especially useful if you use multiple devices for work, personal, or entertainment purposes.
Can I use AirPods to take calls on my Surface device?
Yes, you can use AirPods to take calls on your Surface device. With the AirPods paired to your Surface device, you can answer and make calls using the AirPods’ built-in microphones and speakers. The audio quality is clear and crisp, making it easy to communicate with others during calls.
When you receive a call on your Surface device, you can answer it using the AirPods by tapping the play/pause button on the stem of the AirPod. You can also use the AirPods to make calls by using the Windows 10 Phone app or other calling apps on your Surface device.