How to Reset Bluetooth on a Mac
Bluetooth, often referred to as “personal area networks”, is a handy tool for short-range communications. Maybe you use Bluetooth devices every day without even realizing it.
Whether you need to connect a Bluetooth headset, pair a Bluetooth keyboard, uninstall a paired Bluetooth accessory, or pair a Bluetooth speaker, you can run into all kinds of Bluetooth issues.
Advance checks
If you haven’t tried any troubleshooting for the problematic device, we recommend that you carefully read the following suggestions before resetting Bluetooth on your Mac.
– Check compatibility: If a Bluetooth device fails to connect to your Mac, you should eliminate the possibility of compatibility issues. The device may require a newer version of macOS or may not support the Mac at all, such as the Apple Watch. For details on device compatibility, refer to the device packaging or the manufacturer’s website.
– Close the device: Bluetooth can reach 30 feet, but don’t think it will always succeed. If the device can’t pair or disconnects, move it closer to the Mac.
– Prevent Bluetooth interference: Bluetooth interference may also be a factor. Before attempting to pair the device with a Mac or reusing the device, try leaving an area known to cause interference.
In some cases, apps will interfere with Bluetooth operation. Clearing the cache can help solve this problem. To avoid any complications, you must first clear the cache file of the Mac before restarting the Bluetooth. If that sounds too complicated, don’t worry: try our handy tool, Cleaner One Pro, which can quickly scan your Mac and fix multiple issues.
But sometimes even these suggestions are of no use. If you find yourself in this situation, you will need to reset your Mac’s Bluetooth module to its default settings.
Reset Bluetooth Module on Mac
macOS Monterey and later
• Click on Go > Utilities.
• In the Utilities window, double-click Terminal to launch it.
• Type “sudo pkill bluetooth» and press Enter on your keyboard.
• Type your password and press Enter.
• Click the Apple icon > Restart to complete your Bluetooth reset.
macOS Big Sur and earlier
• Click the Apple menu and choose System Preferences.
• Choose Bluetooth.
• Check the box next to Show Bluetooth in menu bar.
• Press and hold the key Change And Option and click on the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar.
• Choose the hidden option labeled Reset Bluetooth module. On macOS Catalina and earlier, choose Debug > Reset Bluetooth module.
• Restart your Mac.
After resetting your Mac’s Bluetooth in System Preferences, your Mac’s Bluetooth module will be reset to factory settings, so you’ll need to reconnect all wireless devices. If your Bluetooth devices are on, can be found on your Mac, and are within range, you should see them listed here. To connect a device to a Mac, select the device, then follow the onscreen instructions.
If the Bluetooth problem persists, you can contact Apple Support or make an appointment at the nearby Genius Bar.
