Mac Bluetooth issues — Magic Mouse, AirDrop and device pairing
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Quick answer
Bluetooth and WiFi share the same module on a Mac, so if WiFi is also acting up, it's the module. If only Bluetooth is the problem, it's usually a software cache. Always try this first: reset the Bluetooth module (Option+Shift+click on the BT icon) before assuming it's a hardware fault.
Alle spørgsmål
Why doesn't Bluetooth work?
Reset in this order: 1) Turn Bluetooth off and back on. 2) Restart the Mac. 3) Hold Shift+Option and click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar → 'Reset the Bluetooth module' (hidden menu). 4) Delete ~/Library/Preferences/com.apple.Bluetooth.plist and restart. 5) If nothing helps, the module is faulty.
Why can't my Mac find Bluetooth devices?
Check: 1) Is the device in pairing mode (typically by holding a button)? 2) Is the device within 1-2 meters? 3) Are there many other Bluetooth devices in pairing mode nearby? 4) Reset the Bluetooth module (see above). 5) If your Mac can't see any previously paired devices either, it's the module.
Why does Bluetooth keep disconnecting?
Recurring disconnects are caused by: 1) interference from USB 3.0/USB-C devices (a known Apple issue — use a USB hub at a distance from the Mac), 2) too many paired devices, 3) a faulty Bluetooth antenna. Test by removing all USB devices and checking whether Bluetooth becomes stable.
Why doesn't AirDrop work?
AirDrop requires both WiFi and Bluetooth to be on (even if you're not connected to a network). Check: 1) both are on for both devices, 2) AirDrop is set to 'Everyone' (not 'Contacts Only') while testing, 3) both devices have macOS/iOS up to date. 4) Reset both WiFi and Bluetooth.
Why doesn't Magic Mouse work?
1) Check the battery (on/off switch on the bottom), 2) turn the mouse off and on, 3) re-pair: System Settings → Bluetooth → click 'i' next to Magic Mouse → 'Forget' → re-pair. 4) If still nothing, it's either the mouse (test on another Mac) or your Mac's Bluetooth module. We can test both.