Can't Add a Bluetooth device

Question

Recently, I can't add my bluetooth speaker or my Airpods to my laptop.

When I click through Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device > Bluetooth I get just one choice: 'Troubleshoot Bluetooth connections'. I have already done the Troubleshoot many times. I have uninstalled / installed Bluetooth driver (Device Manager) many times and still no luck.

Interestingly, When I click through Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device > Wireless display or dock, I can connect to my Roku TV.

I bought the laptop Mar 2024. I had no problems or issues until last week. I am running Windows 11, update version 25H2 'successfully' (my emphasis) installed on 12/5/25. I am not sure, but my problem could be related with the last update...?

Any words or wisdom you have are much appreciated.]

Joe

Answer 1

It sounds like you're experiencing issues with adding Bluetooth devices after a recent update on your Windows 11 laptop. Here are some steps you can try to resolve the issue:

1. Check Bluetooth Settings: Ensure that Bluetooth is turned on in your settings. Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and make sure Bluetooth is enabled.
2. Restart Bluetooth: Sometimes toggling Bluetooth off and then back on can help. Turn off Bluetooth, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
3. Check Device Compatibility: Make sure that the Bluetooth devices you are trying to connect (your speaker and AirPods) are compatible with Windows 11 and are in pairing mode.
4. Update Bluetooth Drivers: Since you've already uninstalled and reinstalled the Bluetooth driver, ensure that you have the latest drivers. You can check for updates in Device Manager by right-clicking on your Bluetooth device and selecting Update driver.
5. Run Bluetooth Troubleshooter: Although you've mentioned running the troubleshooter multiple times, it may be worth trying again after performing the above steps. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Bluetooth.
6. Rollback Recent Update: If you suspect that the issue started after the latest update, you might consider rolling back the update. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history > Uninstall updates and see if you can revert the recent update.
7. Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes, subsequent updates can fix issues created by previous ones. Check for any new updates in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
8. Reset Network Settings: As a last resort, you can reset your network settings, which can sometimes resolve Bluetooth issues. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, you may want to consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

---

References:

• Bluetooth devices aren't pairing
• Bluetooth speakers don't work after update 4505903 is installed in Windows 10, version 1903

Answer 2

Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.

---

As far as I know, "Wireless display or dock" relies on Wi-Fi, not Bluetooth.

---

It is necessary to investigate this issue to understand the reason for it.

---

Please do the following:

1. Press "Windows + X" and select "Device Manager";
2. Click on the "View" menu and select "Show hidden devices";
3. Expand "Bluetooth";
4. If the Bluetooth adapter is listed, right-click and select "Properties". Check if there is an error in "Device Status". If you see an error under Device Status, please share a screenshot.

• Pay attention when trying to identify your PC's Bluetooth adapter. Not all adapters on the list are your PC's Bluetooth adapter. If you can't identify the Bluetooth adapter, please share a screenshot of the devices under the Bluetooth category.
• Use the shortcut "Windows + Shift + S" to use the screenshot tool.

---

Also, share a screenshot of your system information.

• Press "Windows + R", type msinfo32 and press Enter.

Maximize the window and use the shortcut "Windows + Shift + S" to use the screenshot tool. Or take a picture of the screen using a camera or smartphone and share it.

---

I await your reply.

Answer 3

David...just following up. Any luck? If not, I will do step 6 from AI, Rollback Recent Update. If that does not work, I'll just reset. Thanks again.