JBL headphones · Connect guide
How to connect JBL headphones
Sources checked · how we check
JBL headphones pair like any Bluetooth accessory: put them into pairing mode, then choose them in your phone's or computer's Bluetooth settings. Once paired, they reconnect automatically when they're on and in range.
01 · Before you start
Check these first
- Charge the headphones and turn them on.
- Put them into pairing mode. Most JBL devices show a blinking light or make a sound when they're ready; the owner's manual for your model has the exact button.
02 · Connect
Step by step, by device
JBL LIVE headphones
Power on → blinking blue light → Settings → Bluetooth → JBL LIVE
- First time: switch the headphones on and look for the blinking blue light that shows pairing mode.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your phone or computer, find the JBL LIVE headphones in Settings → Bluetooth, and confirm pairing.
- Second time onwards, or to link a different device: press and hold the power button until the blue light flashes, then pair from the new device.
JBL lists these steps for the LIVE 220BT, LIVE 400BT, LIVE 500BT and LIVE 650BTNC.
Pair with an Android phone
Swipe down → touch and hold Bluetooth → Pair new device
- With the headphones in pairing mode, swipe down from the top of the screen and touch and hold Bluetooth.
- Tap Pair new device, tap the headphones' name and follow the on-screen instructions.
Source: Google: find and set up Bluetooth devices near your Android device
Pair with an iPhone
Settings → Bluetooth → tap the headphones
- Go to Settings, tap Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth.
- Tap the headphones' name when it appears. You might need to enter a PIN or passcode.
Source: Apple: connect a third-party Bluetooth accessory to your iPhone or iPad
Pair with a Windows 11 laptop
Quick settings → Manage Bluetooth devices → New devices
- Select the Network, Sound or Battery icon on the taskbar, then the Manage Bluetooth devices arrow on the Bluetooth quick setting.
- Select the headphones under New devices, then select Done.
Windows 10 steps are in the Windows Bluetooth guide.
Pair with a Mac
System Settings → Bluetooth → Connect
- Choose Apple menu → System Settings, then click Bluetooth.
- Hold the pointer over the headphones in the list and click Connect.
Source: Apple Mac User Guide: connect a Bluetooth device with your Mac
If it still won't connect
If the headphones don't reconnect automatically, turn Bluetooth on and select them again in your phone's Bluetooth settings. If another phone is connected to them, disconnect them or turn off Bluetooth on that phone first. Don't forget or unpair the headphones to fix a connection: you'd have to pair them again. JBL describes a reset as a last resort, because it erases all pairings.
Frequently asked questions
How do I put JBL LIVE headphones into pairing mode for a new device?
Press and hold the power button until the blue light flashes, then pair from the new device's Bluetooth settings.
Why won't my JBL headphones connect to my phone?
JBL says another device may already be connected to them. Disconnect them on that device or turn its Bluetooth off, then select the headphones on your phone.