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AirPods Pro on Windows: what actually works

AirPods Pro connect to Windows as ordinary Bluetooth headphones. Audio works immediately. Most of what makes them feel different on an iPhone does not come across, because those parts are built into Apple's operating systems rather than into the earbuds.

Here is the honest split.

The equalizer and noise control come to the Microsoft Store version of KikuTune with KikuTune Bridge, a free companion you install from this site. The same installer brings noise control; the Bridge page lists what it needs.

Works with no extra software

Stereo audio for music, video and games. Microphone input for calls, at reduced audio quality while it is in use.

Pairing through the ordinary Windows Bluetooth settings, and reconnecting when in range.

Does not come across on its own

Battery levels for the buds and case. Windows has no reliable way to read them.

Noise control modes. Switching between off, transparency and cancellation is not exposed through standard Windows Bluetooth.

Automatic ear detection, so playback does not pause when you take a bud out.

Any equalizer. Windows does not provide one for Bluetooth headphones.

Pairing, briefly

  1. 1Put both buds in the case and leave the lid open.
  2. 2Press and hold the button on the back until the light flashes white.
  3. 3In Windows, open Settings, then Bluetooth & devices, then Add device, and choose Bluetooth.
  4. 4Select the earbuds from the list.

If they do not appear, close the lid for a few seconds and repeat. A nearly empty case can also stop them entering pairing mode.

Two things worth knowing before you start

Windows will register two audio devices for one pair of earbuds — a stereo output and a headset with a microphone. Knowing this explains most of the sound problems people hit later.

Switching between a Mac or iPhone and a PC is not automatic. The PC connection has to be re-established from Windows each time.

How KikuTune helps here

KikuTune fills most of the second list. Battery for each bud and the case, automatic ear detection and output switching are in the free app, with no account.

The equalizer and noise control modes come with KikuTune Bridge, a free companion for the Microsoft Store app and one download from the Bridge page. Pro, $1.99 a month with seven days free, adds Model Tune for your model, audience modes and a 64-bit studio path.

Download

Where this does not help

  • Noise control modes need KikuTune Bridge, a free download from this site. Battery, output switching and smart pause never need it.
  • Spatial audio with head tracking does not work on Windows, with or without extra software.

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