How to Turn on Bluetooth on a Mac

This article explains how to turn on Bluetooth on a Mac. Three ways to do this are explored, including enabling Bluetooth without a mouse or keyboard; It also covers how to pair a new device and what to do if it doesn’t work.

How to turn on Bluetooth on your Mac

Most Macs these days come with Bluetooth enabled. However, if your device is an exception or has been disabled, learn how to turn on Bluetooth on your Mac.

1. On your Mac, click the Apple icon in the menu bar.

2. click system settings.

3. click Bluetooth.

4. click Turn on Bluetooth.

5. Bluetooth is now enabled and ready to pair with devices.

   
   

Here’s how to turn on Bluetooth on your Mac without a mouse or keyboard

If Bluetooth has been turned off and you need it to use your mouse or keyboard, you can use a USB mouse or keyboard instead to access your Mac and turn Bluetooth back on. If you don’t have one, here’s how to turn on Bluetooth with your voice.

With your Mac on, say “Hey Siri, turn on Bluetooth.” Bluetooth will turn on and your mouse and keyboard will be reconnected shortly.

How to turn on Bluetooth from Control Center

It is also possible to turn on Bluetooth from the Control Center in the menu bar. Here’s what to do.

1. Click on the menu bar control center.

2. click Bluetooth to turn it on.

3. Bluetooth is now activated.

   
   

How to pair a new device

Once Bluetooth is turned on, you need to pair new devices. How to pair a new device.

1. In the Bluetooth section of the system settings, wait until the device appears in the list.

   The device must be turned on and in pairing mode. You’ll need to read the instructions that came with the device you’re trying to pair, but usually there’s a physical button that you press and hold for a moment to put the device into pairing mode.

2. click Connect.

   
   

3. Wait for the device to connect.

   Some devices require you to enter a PIN, which is displayed on your Mac.

4. The device is now paired with your Mac.

   
   

What to do if Bluetooth doesn’t work?

If Bluetooth isn’t working on your Mac even after following these steps, the reasons can be pretty simple. Here’s a quick rundown of how to fix the problem.

• Check if your device is turned on. Your Mac can only see and use a device when it’s turned on. Check if your mouse, keyboard or other device has sufficient battery life and is currently working.
• Check if your device is in pairing mode. If you’re trying to pair a new device with your Mac, verify that it’s in pairing mode by following the instructions for the device.
• Make sure you’re close enough. Bluetooth has a distance limit. This will vary depending on the age of your device and the version of Bluetooth you’re using, but on average expect it to have a range of around 30 feet.
• Restart your Mac and Bluetooth. Restarting your Mac, the device in question, or repairing the two can often fix many Bluetooth connection issues.