How to use only one AirPod

It's easy!
 By 
Elena Cavender
 on 
How to use only one AirPod
Yes, you can use only one AirPod. Credit: Getty Images

Miss the simple pleasure of being a one-earbud-in, one-earbud-out kind of person? Listening to just a little bit of music but still interacting with the world via your free ear...well lucky for you, that experience didn't die with the advent of the AirPod.

Yes, you can use only one AirPod! Using one AirPod is super easy and it can come in handy when you're multitasking. Using only one AirPod also allows you to charge the other AirPod so you can optimize charging your AirPods while still listening to your favorite music or podcast.

SEE ALSO: The best headphones for iPhone users


You May Also Like

When you use only one AirPod your phone will automatically switch to mono output, so you don't have to worry about missing anything that you're listening to.

Follow the steps below to use only one AirPod.

How to use only one AirPod:

1. Open your AirPods case

2. Remove one AirPod

3. Place one AirPod in your ear

It's as simple as that! Your phone should automatically pair to the singular AirPod in your ear.

You can easily switch which AirPod you're using and your phone will automatically reconnect.

If you're using both AirPods and want to switch to just one, simply put the AirPods back in their case and remove to and place it in your ear.

Mashable Image
Elena Cavender

Elena is a tech reporter and the resident Gen Z expert at Mashable. She covers TikTok and digital trends. She recently graduated from UC Berkeley with a BA in American History. Email her at [email protected] or follow her @ecaviar_.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You

Amazon's sister site is having a one-day sale, and this Bissell TurboClean deal is too good to skip
A woman using the Bissell TurboClean Cordless Hard Floor Cleaner Mop and Lightweight Wet/Dry Vacuum.

One day only: Sony XM5 headphones just hit a new record price — save $157 in Big Spring Sale
sony xm5 headphones with stickers that read 'best price ever' and 'ending soon'

The Samsung Odyssey G5 gaming monitor is almost half price — now only $249.99
The 32-inch Samsung Odyssey G5 gaming monitor on a green and orange background


More in Tech
How to watch Chelsea vs. Port Vale online for free
Alejandro Garnacho of Chelsea reacts

How to watch 'Wuthering Heights' at home: Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi's controversial romance now streaming
Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi embracing in still from "Wuthering Heights"

How to watch New York Islanders vs. Philadelphia Flyers online for free
Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders warms up

How to watch Mexico vs. Belgium online for free
Israel Reyes of Mexico reacts

How to watch Brazil vs. Croatia online for free
Vinicius Junior #10 of Brazil leaves

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

What's new to streaming this week? (April 3, 2026)
A composite of images from film and TV streaming this week.


NYT Strands hints, answers for April 3, 2026
A game being played on a smartphone.
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!