AirPods won't connect directly to Samsung TVs because Samsung uses a different wireless standard
AirPods connect via Bluetooth, but Samsung TVs use a proprietary wireless protocol that doesn't recognize Apple devices. You can't pair AirPods the way you would with an iPhone or Mac. However, there are three real workarounds: use a Bluetooth adapter plugged into the TV's audio output, connect AirPods to a device that's already connected to the TV, or use Samsung's own wireless earbuds instead.
The simplest route for most people is a small Bluetooth transmitter. These plug into your TV's headphone jack or optical audio port and broadcast to your AirPods. They cost between $20 and $50 and work with any TV, not just Samsung.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung TVs do not have native AirPods support because they use different wireless technology than Apple devices.
- A Bluetooth transmitter adapter plugged into your TV's audio output is the most straightforward solution and works with any brand of TV.
- You can also connect AirPods to a phone or tablet that's streaming content from your Samsung TV, then play audio through the AirPods instead.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds are designed to work seamlessly with Samsung TVs and may be a better choice if you own other Samsung devices.
Using a Bluetooth transmitter adapter
A Bluetooth transmitter is a small device that converts your TV's audio signal into a Bluetooth signal your AirPods can receive. Look for models that support Bluetooth 5.0 or later and have a range of at least 30 feet. Popular options include the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 transmitter and the Avantree Audikast Plus, though many generic models work just as well.
Check your Samsung TV's audio outputs first. Most TVs have either a 3.5mm headphone jack on the back or an optical audio port (a small square opening labeled "Optical Out" or "SPDIF"). If your TV has both, the optical connection usually delivers better sound quality. Plug the transmitter into whichever port your TV has, then pair your AirPods to the transmitter the same way you would pair them to any Bluetooth device: open your AirPods case near the transmitter, hold the setup button on the back of the case for a few seconds until the light flashes white, then select the transmitter from your AirPods' Bluetooth menu.
Once paired, the transmitter will automatically connect whenever you turn on your TV and the AirPods are nearby. Audio latency (the delay between what you see and what you hear) is usually minimal with modern transmitters, though it may be noticeable during fast-action scenes or sports. If lag bothers you, look for a transmitter that advertises "low-latency" mode.
Connecting AirPods through a phone or tablet
If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Android phone, you can use it as a middleman. Connect your phone to your Samsung TV using screen mirroring or an HDMI cable, then pair your AirPods to the phone. The TV will display the phone's screen, and audio will play through your AirPods instead of the TV's speakers.
For iPhones and iPads, open Control Center, tap Screen Mirroring, and select your Samsung TV from the list. Your TV may ask you to confirm the connection. Once connected, pair your AirPods as usual by opening the case and holding the setup button. Audio from anything playing on your phone will now come through the AirPods.
This method works well for streaming apps like Netflix or YouTube, but it ties up your phone — you can't use it for other tasks while the TV is mirroring. It also requires your phone to stay within Bluetooth range of the AirPods, which is usually 30 to 40 feet in an open room.
Why Samsung TVs don't support AirPods natively
Samsung uses Bluetooth for some features, but the TV's main wireless system is proprietary — it's designed specifically for Samsung devices like Galaxy Buds and Samsung soundbars. Apple's AirPods use a different Bluetooth profile and encryption that Samsung TVs don't recognize. This isn't a limitation of AirPods; it's how Samsung chose to build their ecosystem.
If you own other Samsung devices, this approach makes sense: Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Watches, and Samsung soundbars all connect to Samsung TVs more seamlessly than third-party Bluetooth devices. But if you're invested in Apple's ecosystem, a Bluetooth transmitter is the practical choice.
Comparing your options
| Method | Cost | Setup time | Audio quality | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth transmitter | $20–$50 | 5 minutes | Good to excellent | Permanent setup; works with any TV |
| Phone or tablet mirroring | $0 | 2 minutes | Good | Occasional use; ties up your device |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds | $100–$200 | 1 minute | Excellent | If you use other Samsung devices |
Troubleshooting common connection problems
If your AirPods keep disconnecting from the transmitter, move the transmitter closer to where you sit. Walls, metal objects, and other wireless devices (like Wi-Fi routers or microwaves) can weaken the Bluetooth signal. Also check that your AirPods have enough battery — low battery can cause intermittent disconnections.
If you hear audio from both the TV speakers and the AirPods at the same time, go into your TV's sound settings and mute the internal speakers or set the audio output to "Headphones" or "External Audio." The exact menu name varies by Samsung model, but it's usually under Settings > Sound > Speaker Settings or Audio Output.
If the transmitter pairs once but won't reconnect automatically, unpair it from your AirPods and pair it again. Hold the setup button on the transmitter (usually on the side or back) for 5 to 10 seconds until the light flashes, then pair your AirPods fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple pairs of AirPods with one Bluetooth transmitter?
Most Bluetooth transmitters can pair with only one device at a time. If you want two people to hear the TV through AirPods simultaneously, you'll need either two transmitters or a transmitter that supports dual pairing — check the product specs before buying. Alternatively, one person can use AirPods and another can use the TV's speakers.
Will a Bluetooth transmitter work with older Samsung TVs?
Yes. As long as your TV has a headphone jack or optical audio port, a transmitter will work. You don't need a smart TV or any special features — just an audio output. Even 10-year-old Samsung models will work with a transmitter.
Is there any lag when using a Bluetooth transmitter?
Most modern transmitters have latency under 100 milliseconds, which is imperceptible during normal viewing. Sports and action movies may show slight lag if the transmitter doesn't support low-latency mode. If lag is a problem, look for a transmitter labeled "aptX Low Latency" or "LDAC."
What if my Samsung TV has no audio outputs at all?
Some newer Samsung TVs removed the headphone jack. In that case, phone or tablet mirroring is your best option, or you can buy an HDMI audio extractor (a small device that pulls audio from an HDMI cable) and connect a transmitter to that. These cost $15 to $30.
Should I buy Samsung Galaxy Buds instead?
If you already own AirPods and use them with your iPhone or Mac, a Bluetooth transmitter is cheaper and lets you keep using the same earbuds everywhere. Galaxy Buds make sense only if you're switching to Samsung devices or want seamless integration with a Samsung TV and other Samsung products.