To pair a Bose headset, you must first put it into pairing mode, then select it from your device's Bluetooth settings. The exact method to enter pairing mode depends on whether your headset has a dedicated Bluetooth button or a Power/Bluetooth switch, with both methods covered below.
How to pair your Bose headset to any device
The process for pairing your Bose headset depends on whether your model uses a Bluetooth button or a Power/Bluetooth switch. Follow the method that matches your headset's controls to connect it to a phone, tablet, or computer.
Step 1: Turn on your Bose headset
Locate the power button or switch on your Bose headset and press or slide it to turn the headset on. Before beginning, ensure the headset has sufficient battery charge; if the headset does not power on, charge it using the provided cable before proceeding.
Step 2: Put your Bose headset in pairing mode
There are two distinct methods for entering pairing mode, depending on your headset model.
- For headsets with a Power/Bluetooth switch (e.g., QuietComfort series): Slide the switch all the way to the right, toward the Bluetooth icon, and hold it there until the Bluetooth light blinks blue and you hear the voice prompt "Ready to connect" or "Discoverable."
- For headsets with a dedicated Bluetooth button (e.g., Noise Cancelling Headphones 700, QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds): Press and hold the Bluetooth button until the light blinks blue, indicating the headset is in pairing mode and ready to connect.
Step 3: Enable Bluetooth on your device and connect
- On your smartphone, tablet, or computer, go to the settings menu and turn on Bluetooth.
- Wait for your device to scan for available devices, then select your Bose headset from the list.
- On a Windows PC, if your Bose product appears twice in the list, select the option with the headphones or speaker icon next to it, and avoid selecting any option that begins with "LE-."
Successful pairing is confirmed by a tone, a solid blue or white light on the headset, or a voice prompt stating "Connected to [device name]."
Alternative method: Pair using the Bose app
As a backup method, many Bose headsets can be paired using the Bose Music app or Bose Connect app. Open the app, navigate to the "Source" or "Connections" menu, select "Bluetooth," and then tap "Add New" or a similar option to add a new Bluetooth device. The app is also necessary for accessing advanced features such as firmware updates, customizing noise cancellation, adjusting immersive audio settings, and managing multipoint connections.
Troubleshooting: When your Bose headset won't pair
- Clear the headset's memory of previously connected Bluetooth devices: Power the headset on, then slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and hold it for 15 seconds until you hear "Bluetooth device list cleared. Ready to connect."
- Restart both the Bose headset and the device you are attempting to pair it with.
- Clear the Bluetooth pairing list on your device. Navigate to the Bluetooth settings on your device and delete any existing pairings with the Bose Headset, then initiate the pairing process again.
- Move closer to your device. Bluetooth signals can weaken over distance, so getting closer can help establish a stronger connection during the pairing process.
- Check for firmware updates. Visit the Bose website or use the Bose Connect app to check for any available updates for your headset.
- Contact Bose customer support if you have tried all the troubleshooting steps above and are still unable to pair your headset.
- Check for a solid light or the voice prompt "Connected to [device name]" to confirm a successful connection.
Managing multiple Bluetooth connections
Bose headphones can typically store up to eight paired devices and maintain an active connection with two devices simultaneously (multipoint connection), though audio will only play from one device at a time. This allows you to switch between your smartphone, tablet, and computer without reconnecting each time, making it ideal for general headset setup and use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pair my Bose headset with a non-Bluetooth device?
Yes, Bose offers some headsets that are compatible with devices lacking built-in Bluetooth. These headsets use a wireless audio transmitter that connects to non-Bluetooth devices via an audio cable or USB connection.
Why does my Bose headset appear twice in my Windows Bluetooth list?
When pairing with a Windows PC, your Bose product may appear twice.
How do I reset my Bose headset if pairing keeps failing?
Ready to connect." This removes all previously paired devices and lets you start fresh.
Can I pair my Bose headset with other brands of devices?
Yes, Bose headsets are designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and audio players, regardless of the brand, as long as the device supports Bluetooth connectivity.
Related reading: How To Pair Sony Headset and How To Pair Jbl Headset.
