- Learn how to pair JBL speakers with multiple devices
- Troubleshoot a variety of connection issues
- Learn how to reset your JBL speakers and devices
- We also have a separate guide to connecting multiple JBL speakers
In this article, we’ll look at JBL speakers specifically and how you would connect your JBL speakers to various devices (and troubleshoot should you have any issues!).
How To Put JBL Speakers Into Pairing Mode
This portable party starter boasts a 2-way speaker system with a racetrack-shaped woofer for clear and pronounced lows and mids matched with a separate tweeter to handle high frequencies.
- Adjustable EQ
- Fully waterproof and dustproof
- Great sound
If you want to connect JBL speakers to one of your devices, whether a smartphone or laptop, you’ll need to ensure that they are in pairing mode before doing anything.
Pairing mode essentially puts your speakers into a state where they can connect to a compatible device, so a pretty important step of the pairing process!
It’s worth noting that many JBL speakers will automatically enter pairing mode on powering up.
However, if you need to make sure your JBL speakers are ready to connect and in pairing mode, just follow these two steps:
- Turn on your JBL speaker
- Hold down the Bluetooth button for 3 seconds or more
A blinking light will indicate pairing mode. If your speaker was not previously connected to a device, it may power on already in pairing mode.
Similarly, if it was connected to a device (providing that device is in range with Bluetooth enabled), it should automatically reconnect.
How To Pair JBL Speakers
There are many devices you might want to connect JBL speakers to, all of which are usually straightforward and easy to do.
How To Connect JBL Speaker To iPhone
Connecting usually only takes a few easy steps. Here’s how to connect JBL speakers to an iPhone:
- Ensure your JBL speaker is powered on and ready to pair
- Open the ‘Settings’ app on your iPhone
- Scroll to the Bluetooth menu
- Locate your JBL speakers and tap on them to connect
Give the speakers a quick test by playing music to ensure the connection has been completed.
How To Connect JBL Speaker To Mac
Listening to music on a Mac or Macbook? Here’s how to connect your JBL speakers:
- Make sure your speakers are powered on and in pairing mode
- Click on the ‘Apple’ logo in the top left of the screen
- Select ‘System Preferences’
- Click on ‘Bluetooth’
- Locate your JBL speakers and click on them to complete the connection
It’s as easy as that. Load up your music and test if the speakers are connected properly.
How To Connect JBL Speaker To Android
If you’re an Android phone user and wondering how to pair JBL speakers to your device, here’s how:
- Ensure your JBL speakers are in pairing mode and turned on
- Open the ‘Settings’ menu on your Android device
- Turn on Bluetooth
- In the Bluetooth menu, select ‘Pair New Device’
- Locate your JBL speakers and tap on them to connect to your device
Once again, give them a quick test by listening to some music.
How To Connect JBL Speaker To Laptop Or PC
These instructions will be the same for both Windows on PC and Laptop.
It’s worth noting that if you’re wondering how to connect JBL speakers and are having no luck, you may need to update your Bluetooth drivers.
If you are using an older model of laptop or PC, then you may also need to pick up a Bluetooth transmitter.
To connect your JBL speakers, just follow these steps:
- On the Start menu, search for ‘Settings’
- Click on ‘Bluetooth & Other Devices’
- Click On ‘Add Bluetooth Or Other Device’
- Locate your JBL speakers and click on them to connect
Again, check they are connected properly by playing some music.
What Is The JBL Portable App?
The JBL Portable app (Android & iOS) is an intuitive smartphone and tablet option that gives you even more control over your JBL speakers
Not to be confused with the JBL Connect app as previously known, ‘Portable’ offers some unique functions such as a customizable pulse light show, adjustable equalizer, and the ability to manage connected speakers directly from your smartphone.
The app is currently available completely free.
Why Is My JBL Speaker Not Connecting Via Bluetooth?
There are several reasons why your JBL speaker may not be connecting successfully via Bluetooth:
Is The Speaker In Range?
This is a very obvious point, but first of all, consider how far away your speaker is from your device. If you’re not nearby, it may have trouble connecting. Bring your speaker closer to your music device and see if the problem persists.
Is Your JBL Speaker Connected To Another Device?
It could be that your JBL speaker is currently connected to another device, which may stop it from successfully pairing with the one you want it to be linked with.
If there are other devices nearby that you know the speakers have previously connected, make sure to disconnect them first.
Is Your JBL Speaker Properly Charged?
Ensure there is enough charge in your JBL speaker. If you’re wondering how to pair JBL speakers, then this should be one of the first things you check.
You may have pairing issues if the speaker batteries are nearly empty!
Is Your Device Properly Charged?
On the other side of the coin, is the device you are playing music from charged enough?
Some devices, such as the iPhone, will enter low power mode when the charge diminishes, which can cause Bluetooth to be disabled.
How To Reset Your JBL Speakers
If all else fails, try resetting your speakers fully. Often this will defeat the mysterious gremlin that randomly decides it doesn’t want your tech to work!
This isn’t a universal process across all JBL speakers. However, the general rule is that you’ll need to hold down two buttons for a few seconds to initiate the reset.
Usually, this is the Volume+ button and the Bluetooth or pause/play button. Doing so will cause the unit to power down.
Upon turning it on again, the reset should be complete, and the speakers will connect to your device.
If in doubt, consult your manual or refer to your model on the JBL website.
Before you go, be sure to check out our detailed walkthrough on How To Pair Your JBL Headphones To Any Device!