How to Answer the Phone with AirPods or AirPods Pro

The businessman or entrepreneur on the go has a lot of great mobile technology at their fingertips. This makes it easy to stay connected and keep tabs on business matters around the clock, around the world, and around the busy lifestyles they may lead. 

As technology has evolved, so have the tools available to us. Wireless earbuds aren’t as new as they used to be, but they’re still something that a lot of people aren’t familiar with. For iPhone users, the AirPods are the perfect solution to hands-free communication that’s not tethered to a desk or another device. Of course, making the most of those AirPods is a whole different conversation. Although it seems simple enough to pop in the buds and start taking (and making) calls, there’s a lot to learn with these little gems. 

One of the most valuable lessons? How to answer a call with the AirPods (or AirPods Pro version) without actually having to touch your phone. Many people will still use their actual iPhone to accept calls and then pop in their AirPods and carry on the conversation. While this works, it may not always be an option. 

What if you’re somewhere that requires you to be hands-free? Can’t afford to miss that pressing business call (or perhaps even a call from the kids while you’re out of town)? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to answer the phone with your AirPods. Whether you have the regular or Pro model, the process should be fairly similar. Before we dig in, let’s talk a little more about AirPods and the features they offer. 

How do AirPods work?

AirPods are wireless earbuds that use Bluetooth connectivity to provide hands-free communication that Apple dubs as “true wireless”. You can answer and end calls, start and stop music, and adjust the volume, all from the AirPods themselves and without having to reach for your smartphone or tablet, or other devices. 

The way that the various features work depends on which version of AirPods you have. The basic functions are touch or tap-activated, and the earbuds connect to your various devices via wireless Bluetooth technology. That means your device will need to be Bluetooth-enabled and have Bluetooth on to use these earbuds. The later models have been upgraded with technology to allow for totally hands-free operation with the assistance of Siri (more on that later), too, so there’s a lot to offer here. 

AirPods, like all wireless earbuds, have a lot of features and functions to consider. It’s a bit of a learning curve, but fortunately, Apple makes it all fairly easy. And as for features, they’ve got plenty to offer:

• Premium audio
• Intuitive phone and music controls
• Extended battery life
• Water and sweat resistance (select models)
• Charging case included
• Noise cancellation features available
• Lightning charging capabilities

You can choose from several iterations of the AirPods, and new generations are always on the horizon as Apple finds more features and more ways to capitalize on the great use of wireless technology in its devices and accessories. Apple has long been setting (and changing) the standard for tech, and this is no different. 

How to choose your AirPods

To make the most of Apple’s latest product, you need to consider the different versions available and which ones best suit your needs. Most people assume that all AirPods are the same, but that’s not the case. As a matter of fact, as of the time of this writing, the current product list from Apple includes:

1. AirPods – Introduced 2017, model numbers A1523, A1722
2. 2nd Gen AirPods – Introduced 2019, model numbers A2031, A2032
3. 3rd Gen AirPods – Introduced 2021, model numbers A2564, A2565
4. AirPods Pro – Introduced 2019, model numbers A2083, A2084
5. AirPods Max – Introduced 2020, model number A2096

Currently, you can purchase 2nd and 3rd Gen AirPods, as well as AirPods Pro and AirPods Max at new retail prices. The first generation of AirPods may still be available, but they will typically be used, refurbished, or an aftermarket special. 

You’ll find your model number on the bottom side of the AirPod itself, or under the cushion of the left ear on the AirPods Max. You’ll also find the serial number here, which you can use for troubleshooting, compatibility, and more. 

Of course, many people want to know what the difference is between the various models. Here’s what we’ve found out. 

When comparing the 2nd and 3rd Gen AirPods, the newer model now includes spatial audio, sweat, and water resistance, 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and 30 hours of listening time in a charged case, and the upgraded MagSafe charging case. Adaptive EQ, a force sensor, and more functions for easy control of calls and music are also included. 

As far as size and weight considerations go, the difference between AirPods earbud models is minimal. The AirPods Max headphones are the outlier here, offering wireless over-the-head style headphones for those who want something besides an earbud. 

The AirPods Pro and AirPods Max also have their own premium audio features and controls, charging and listening times, and other features to consider. You can compare all the models on the Apple website to see which one best suits your needs. 

To choose the right model for your needs, consider the fit and style, features, battery life, and other elements that are important to you. If cost is a consideration, you’ll spend less on older models or those with fewer features. Of course, the price range is all relatively similar, so you’ll want to focus more on what you’re getting for your money. 

Can I use AirPods with any device?

While it’d be nice to finally find an Apple product that could be shared, these aren’t it. AirPods and AirPods Pro are designed to work exclusively with iOS devices (phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) that are operating on iOS 13 or a later version. 

There is also a list of compatible Mac computers that will work with your AirPods, with models dating all the way back to 2012. You can check that list out by visiting the Apple Support Community and looking at the tech specs for the 3rd Gen AirPods and other models. 

Now, for the caveat—these are standard Bluetooth headphones, so they essentially could work with any device that takes a Bluetooth connection. However, there’s a big red flag here. These earbuds aren’t designed to work with other brands. They’re uniquely created for the best experience with Apple devices. 

So, you could use AirPods on your Android phone or Windows tablet, but you’ll probably lose a lot of features and functionality. And for that fact, there’s probably a better model of Bluetooth earbud designed specifically for those devices, so you’ll get all the features that you deserve. It’ll probably cost a lot less, too. 

If you like the AirPods themselves, consider switching to Apple devices. If you just want some good Bluetooth earbuds, do some research and figure out which models are best for the devices that you use, whether those are Windows-based, Android, or otherwise. 

Now, let’s talk about how to use AirPods to answer calls when you are using iOS devices. 

How to answer phone calls with your AirPods

Ok, now for the important stuff: how do you answer calls using AirPods? There are a few different options, and we will cover them all right here. Make sure that you know which generation and model of AirPods you have because the instructions are different depending on the version that you have. Here’s what you need to know. 

To answer with a tap

AirPods 1st Generation: Double-tap either of your earbuds (tap twice). To end a call, tap twice again on the side of one of the earbuds. 

AirPods 2nd Generation: Tap once on the side of either earbud. Tap once to end calls, too. 

AirPods Pro: Squeeze the force sensor to answer a call, which is located on the stem. You can squeeze twice quickly to decline a call, and also squeeze once to end a call while using the Pro model. 

It’s that easy! And of course, a reminder that this is how you utilize the AirPods when you have paired them with a compatible iOS or Apple device. If you are attempting to use these earbuds on any other device, the functionality may be different or impeded because they are not designed for those brands specifically. 

You can also make calls with your AirPods. Here’s how. 

Making phone calls with AirPods and AirPods Pro

The ability to make calls with your AirPods makes it even easier to manage hands-free communications. In combination with Siri’s technology, Apple has a couple of options for making hands-free calls with your AirPods. 

1st Gen AirPods: Double-tap either of your earbuds and wait to hear the activation chime that Siri offers. Then, announce who you want to call. 

2nd Gen AirPods and Pro Versions: Simply say “Hey Siri,” and when you hear the chime, announce the call you want to make. 

When you add the power of Siri to your AirPods (and have the Pro model or latest version), you’re creating a truly wireless, hands-free calling solution that makes it easier than ever for you to keep in touch, no matter what you’re busy doing with your hands. 

For more information, resources, and Apple expert support: AirPods Support

Changing communications for the better

Thanks to products like AirPods, we no longer have to spend hours behind a desk, tethered to a phone, just waiting for that one call. We don’t have to worry about missing a thing while we’re out or even trying to pick up a call while picking up the dry cleaning. It’s a beautiful world that we live in when you embrace technology, and wireless earbuds are a definite must-have for any business professional today. 

Hands-free communications mean that you can do more while you talk, get more done while you travel, and even ensure that you’re available whenever an important call might come in, no matter what time of day or night it might be. While there’s a lot of novelty technology out there that isn’t doing a lot for business, the world of Bluetooth headphones is changing how people handle communications for business, personal use, and more. 

Embrace technology and the tools available to your business so that you can free up more of your time and create a more efficient work environment, no matter what environment you’re currently in. And rest assured that you’ll be taken care of if there’s an issue because Apple has some of the best support in the world. 

Technology is changing a lot. The ability to take and make calls, even when your hands are full, is one that a lot of people can benefit from. Keep these tips and instructions handy so that you can make the most of your investment in your AirPods, no matter which model you buy. 

And when you’re too busy to even answer the calls, ask how a partnership with Smith.ai can help

Sometimes, you just don’t have the time to dedicate to phone calls, messages, scheduling, data entry, and other tedious and time-consuming tasks. However, they still need to be tended to, and in the best way possible. That’s where a partnership with Smith.ai can come in handy. Our dedicated virtual receptionists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to field phone calls, staff your live chat feature on your website, and so much more. 

Whether you’re always on the go or just tired of being on the phone, ask how we can help you create a communications strategy that delivers everything that you need and more. We can assist with admin tasks like scheduling and lead intake, too. 

To learn more, schedule a consultation to discuss what the 24/7 virtual receptionists at Smith.ai can do for your communications and more. You will also find us at hello@smith.ai or (650) 727-6484.