To reset a headset, the first step is always to forget the device in your phone's Bluetooth settings, which clears connection errors and audio glitches. If that doesn't fix the problem, you can then try a model-specific hardware reset, which varies by product like AirPods or Pixel Buds.
How to reset a headset: first steps
When your Bluetooth headset won't connect, reconnect, or stay connected, both Apple and Google document "forget/unpair" as the first fix. This universal step removes the stored pairing data that may be corrupted, letting you start fresh. Hardware resets are secondary steps that depend on your specific headset model.
Reset a headset on iPhone
- Open Settings > Bluetooth.
- Find your headset in the list of devices and tap the More Info button (the "i" icon) next to its name.
- Tap Forget This Device, then tap again to confirm.
Reset a headset on Android
- Open Settings > Connected devices or the Bluetooth settings page.
- Find your headset in the list of paired devices.
- Next to the headset name, tap Forget or Forget device.
How to reset Apple AirPods
AirPods 1/2/3 and AirPods Pro 1/2
- Put the AirPods in their charging case and close the lid for 30 seconds.
- Open the lid, then press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber, then white.
AirPods 4/5 and AirPods Pro 3
- Open the lid, then double-tap the front of the case three times until the status light flashes amber, then white.
How to reset Google Pixel Buds
- First, forget the Pixel Buds in your phone's Bluetooth settings.
- Leave the charging case open with the buds seated inside.
- Press and hold the pairing button on the case for 3 seconds.
- Wait for the bouncing white case light to appear, then pair the buds again.
Troubleshooting after a headset reset
If wireless headphones still have sound problems after unpairing, restart your iPhone and pair again. Apple says you can quickly disconnect all Bluetooth accessories from iPhone by opening Control Center and tapping the Bluetooth control; the accessories disconnect until the next day. Apple also says if wireless headphones still have sound problems after unpairing, restart the iPhone and pair again. Google's Pixel help pages say to use Forget device for accessories you are not currently using before pairing again. These steps apply whether you are troubleshooting gaming headsets or any other Bluetooth audio device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to reset the headset itself or just forget it on the phone?
Both. Forgetting the headset on your phone is the first step. Apple then documents a device-specific hardware reset for AirPods and Beats products, while Google provides a hardware reset sequence for Pixel Buds.
Is the menu path the same on iPhone and Android?
No. On iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the More Info button, then Forget This Device. On Android, go to Settings > Connected devices or Bluetooth settings, then tap Forget or Forget device.
What does the Control Center Bluetooth disconnect do?
It disconnects all Bluetooth accessories from your iPhone until the next day. This is a temporary fix for audio glitches, not a permanent reset.
Will resetting AirPods erase my custom settings?
Yes. A hardware reset restores the AirPods to factory defaults, removing any custom tap controls, ear tip fit test results, or naming you set.
How do I know which AirPods model I have?
Check the model number on the underside of the charging case lid or in your iPhone's Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods > About. The reset steps differ between AirPods 1/2/3, AirPods Pro 1/2, AirPods 4/5, and AirPods Pro 3.
Documented limits and supported devices
Apple documents the iPhone Bluetooth accessory flow on iPhone iOS help pages, but the specific pages retrieved do not list a minimum iOS version for the generic Bluetooth unpair steps. The Apple Control Center Bluetooth disconnect action lasts until the next day, which is a documented limit.
