The Jabra Elite 85t earbuds are a remarkable piece of audio technology, offering exceptional sound quality, active noise cancellation, and a comfortable, secure fit. To fully enjoy these features, however, the first crucial step is to successfully pair them with your devices. This article will guide you through the simple, yet sometimes elusive, process of putting your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds into pairing mode, ensuring you can connect them to your smartphone, tablet, or computer with ease. We’ll cover the essential steps, common scenarios, and troubleshooting tips to get you connected and enjoying your audio experience without delay.
Understanding the Jabra Elite 85t Pairing Process
Before diving into the “how-to,” it’s beneficial to understand the underlying principle of Bluetooth pairing. Bluetooth pairing is the process by which two Bluetooth-enabled devices establish a secure wireless connection. For earbuds like the Jabra Elite 85t, this typically involves placing the earbuds in a discoverable state, allowing your phone or other device to find and connect to them. Jabra has designed a straightforward, intuitive method to achieve this, primarily utilizing the charging case and a specific button press.
The Primary Method: Pairing with the Charging Case
The most common and recommended way to put your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds into pairing mode is by using their accompanying charging case. This method is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, ensuring that both earbuds are ready to connect simultaneously.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pairing Mode Activation
Let’s break down the process into clear, actionable steps.
Preparing Your Earbuds and Case
Begin by ensuring your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds are properly seated within their charging case. It’s important to confirm that both earbuds are making good contact with the charging pins. A small LED indicator on the case usually lights up to show that the earbuds are charging or seated correctly.
Next, you’ll need to open the charging case. The Jabra Elite 85t charging case features a distinctive push-and-release mechanism. To open it, simply press the button located on the front of the case. This button will cause the lid to pop open, revealing the earbuds.
Initiating the Pairing Sequence
Once the case is open and the earbuds are inside, the next step is to initiate the pairing mode. This is where the crucial button on the charging case comes into play. You will need to press and hold this button.
The duration for which you need to press and hold the button is key. You should continue to hold the button for approximately three seconds. During this time, you might observe a change in the LED indicator on the charging case. Typically, the LED will flash blue, signaling that the earbuds are now in pairing mode and are discoverable by other Bluetooth devices.
Confirming Pairing Mode
How do you know for sure that your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds are in pairing mode? The visual cue of the flashing blue LED on the charging case is the primary indicator. Additionally, if you are wearing the earbuds, you might hear an audible cue or a voice prompt indicating that they are ready to pair. The Jabra Elite 85t are known for their clear voice prompts, which often announce “pairing mode” when activated.
Connecting to Your Device
With your earbuds in pairing mode, the next step is to turn on Bluetooth on the device you wish to connect to. This could be your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or any other Bluetooth-enabled gadget.
Navigate to the Bluetooth settings on your device. You should see a list of available Bluetooth devices. Look for “Jabra Elite 85t” in the list. Once you locate it, tap or click on it to initiate the connection.
Your device will then attempt to pair with the earbuds. You might be prompted to confirm a pairing code, although this is less common with modern Bluetooth devices. Once the pairing is successful, you will typically receive a notification on your device, and the LED indicator on the Jabra Elite 85t charging case will likely turn solid blue or turn off, signifying a successful connection.
Pairing with Multiple Devices: The Importance of Resetting
The Jabra Elite 85t earbuds support multipoint connectivity, meaning they can be connected to two devices simultaneously. However, when you’re initially setting up a new connection or if you’re experiencing issues, it’s sometimes necessary to ensure the earbuds are in a state where they can be discovered by a new device. This often involves clearing previous pairing information.
When to Reset Your Jabra Elite 85t for Pairing
You might need to reset your Jabra Elite 85t for pairing in several scenarios. If you’ve previously paired them with one device and are now trying to connect them to a different one, and they automatically connect to the old device, a reset can help. This is also crucial if the earbuds are not appearing in your device’s Bluetooth list or if you encounter persistent connection issues.
How to Perform a Bluetooth Reset on Your Jabra Elite 85t
Performing a Bluetooth reset on the Jabra Elite 85t is a straightforward process that involves the charging case.
Ensure your earbuds are inside the charging case. Close the lid of the case and wait for about 5 seconds.
Then, open the charging case lid again. Now, press and hold the button on the front of the case for a longer duration than the initial pairing. You should aim to hold this button for about 10 to 15 seconds.
During this extended press, the LED indicator on the case will flash in a sequence, typically turning pink, then flashing white, and finally flashing blue. The flashing blue light indicates that the earbuds have been reset and are now ready to be paired again. You will also likely hear an audible confirmation that the connection list has been cleared.
After the reset, you can proceed with the standard pairing method described earlier to connect your Jabra Elite 85t to your desired device.
Troubleshooting Common Pairing Issues
While the pairing process is generally smooth, occasional glitches can occur. Here are some common issues and their solutions.
Earbuds Not Appearing in Bluetooth List
If your Jabra Elite 85t are not showing up in your device’s Bluetooth menu, first ensure they are definitely in pairing mode. Double-check that you held the button on the case for the correct duration (around three seconds after opening the case).
Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your device and that no other device is currently connected or actively trying to connect. Sometimes, simply toggling Bluetooth off and on on your device can resolve the issue. Ensure the earbuds are charged; low battery can sometimes interfere with Bluetooth functionality.
Connection Fails or is Unstable
If the connection is established but is unstable, drops frequently, or fails to complete, a Bluetooth reset of the earbuds is often the most effective solution. After resetting, try pairing them again.
Ensure your device’s operating system and the Jabra Sound+ app (if you’re using it) are up to date. Outdated software can sometimes lead to compatibility issues. Also, be mindful of the distance between your earbuds and your device. While Bluetooth has a decent range, obstacles and distance can weaken the signal. Try to keep your device close to the earbuds during the initial pairing and for optimal performance.
Interference from Other Bluetooth Devices
In environments with many Bluetooth devices operating, interference can sometimes occur. If you suspect this is the case, try moving to a different location with fewer wireless devices. You can also temporarily disable Bluetooth on other nearby devices to see if that improves the connection.
Problems Pairing with a Computer
Computers, especially older models, can sometimes be more finicky with Bluetooth pairings. Ensure your computer’s Bluetooth drivers are up to date. You might need to visit your computer manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers. If your computer doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, you may need a Bluetooth adapter.
When attempting to pair with a computer, ensure the Jabra Elite 85t are in pairing mode as described. Open your computer’s Bluetooth settings, add a new device, and follow the prompts.
Utilizing the Jabra Sound+ App for an Enhanced Experience
The Jabra Sound+ app is an invaluable companion to your Elite 85t earbuds. While not strictly necessary for the initial pairing, it offers a wealth of features that enhance your audio experience, including equalizer settings, active noise cancellation customization, and firmware updates.
Connecting the Earbuds to the App
Once your Jabra Elite 85t are paired with your smartphone via Bluetooth, you can open the Jabra Sound+ app. The app should automatically detect your earbuds and prompt you to connect. If it doesn’t, navigate to the app’s settings and look for an option to connect or add new earbuds.
The app will guide you through any necessary firmware updates, which are crucial for optimal performance and bug fixes. Keeping your earbuds updated ensures you have the latest features and a stable connection.
Firmware Updates and Their Importance
Jabra regularly releases firmware updates for its products. These updates can improve sound quality, enhance active noise cancellation, fix bugs, and add new features. It is highly recommended to keep your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds updated to the latest firmware version through the Jabra Sound+ app.
To check for updates, open the Jabra Sound+ app, and if your earbuds are connected, you should see an option to check for firmware updates. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install any available updates.
A Table Summarizing Key Pairing Actions
To provide a quick reference, here’s a table outlining the primary actions and their expected outcomes:
| Action | Expected Outcome | Duration of Button Press |
| :—————————————— | :——————————————— | :———————– |
| Open case and press/hold case button | Earbuds enter pairing mode (LED flashes blue) | Approx. 3 seconds |
| Open case, close lid, wait 5 sec, open, press/hold case button | Bluetooth list reset (LED flashes pink, then white, then blue) | Approx. 10-15 seconds |
This table highlights the distinct button press durations required for entering standard pairing mode versus performing a Bluetooth reset. Understanding these differences is key to successfully managing your Jabra Elite 85t’s connectivity.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Connected Jabra Elite 85t Experience
Putting your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds into pairing mode is a fundamental step towards unlocking their full potential. By following the straightforward steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently connect them to your devices and begin enjoying superior sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and seamless audio playback. Remember to utilize the charging case button correctly, and don’t hesitate to perform a Bluetooth reset if you encounter any connection issues. With a stable connection established, you can then delve into the advanced features offered by the Jabra Sound+ app, further personalizing your audio journey. Embrace the convenience and superior audio that your Jabra Elite 85t offer, and happy listening!
How do I initiate pairing mode on my Jabra Elite 85t?
To put your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds into pairing mode, ensure they are out of the charging case. Press and hold the Multi-function button on both the right and left earbuds simultaneously for approximately 3 seconds. You will hear an audible tone or a voice prompt indicating that the earbuds are now in pairing mode and ready to connect to a new device.
Once the audible cue is heard, the indicator lights on both earbuds will typically flash blue, signifying that they are discoverable by other Bluetooth-enabled devices. You can then proceed to search for and select your Jabra Elite 85t from the list of available Bluetooth devices on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
What are the prerequisites for pairing my Jabra Elite 85t?
Before attempting to pair your Jabra Elite 85t, it is crucial to ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on the device you wish to connect to. This could be your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or any other Bluetooth-compatible gadget. Also, verify that your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds have sufficient battery charge or are placed in their charging case to ensure they can maintain a stable connection throughout the pairing process.
Additionally, make sure that your Jabra Elite 85t are not already connected to another previously paired device. If they are, you may need to disconnect them from that device first to allow for a new connection. It is also recommended to have your charging case nearby, as some initial setup or firmware updates might require it.
What should I do if my Jabra Elite 85t are not discoverable?
If your Jabra Elite 85t are not appearing in the Bluetooth list of your device, first try turning Bluetooth off and then back on on your connecting device. Then, re-initiate pairing mode on your earbuds by ensuring they are out of the case and pressing and holding the Multi-function buttons on both earbuds for the specified duration. It’s also a good idea to move closer to your connecting device to ensure a strong signal.
If the issue persists, try resetting your Jabra Elite 85t earbuds. This can usually be done by placing both earbuds back into the charging case, closing the lid, waiting for about 10 seconds, and then reopening the lid and taking them out again to re-enter pairing mode. Ensure the earbuds are adequately charged as well, as low battery can sometimes interfere with discoverability.
How do I re-pair my Jabra Elite 85t to a new device?
To re-pair your Jabra Elite 85t to a new device, you will first need to clear the existing Bluetooth connections from the earbuds. Place both earbuds in the charging case and keep the lid open. Then, simultaneously press and hold the Multi-function buttons on both earbuds for about 10-15 seconds, or until the indicator lights flash purple. This action will reset the Bluetooth connections.
After the reset, remove the earbuds from the charging case. They will automatically enter pairing mode. You can then proceed to search for your Jabra Elite 85t on your new device via its Bluetooth settings and initiate the connection as you would with a new device. Remember to disable Bluetooth on any previously connected devices to avoid conflicts.
What do the flashing lights on my Jabra Elite 85t mean during pairing?
During the pairing process, the indicator lights on your Jabra Elite 85t serve as visual cues to confirm their status. When you initiate pairing mode, the lights on both earbuds will typically flash blue, indicating that they are discoverable and ready to be paired with a Bluetooth device. This flashing blue light is the primary signal that you can now search for them on your phone or other connecting gadget.
Once a successful connection is established, the flashing blue lights will usually change to a solid blue or a slow pulsing blue, confirming that the pairing has been completed. If you encounter a flashing purple light, it generally signifies that the earbuds have been reset and are ready to enter pairing mode again, often used when clearing previous connections for re-pairing.
Can I pair my Jabra Elite 85t with multiple devices simultaneously?
The Jabra Elite 85t support multi-point connectivity, which means they can be paired with two devices at the same time. However, they can only actively connect and play audio from one device at a time. If you are connected to your phone and your laptop, and a call comes in on your phone, the earbuds will automatically switch to the phone to allow you to answer the call.
To pair with a second device, first ensure the earbuds are paired to your primary device. Then, place the earbuds back into the charging case with the lid open and press and hold the Multi-function buttons on both earbuds for about 10-15 seconds until the indicator lights flash purple, indicating they are now in pairing mode for a new connection. You can then select them from the Bluetooth list of your second device.
What is the range of Bluetooth connectivity for the Jabra Elite 85t?
The Jabra Elite 85t typically offer a Bluetooth range of up to 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) when connecting to a paired device. This range can be influenced by environmental factors such as physical obstructions like walls, other wireless devices, and electromagnetic interference. For the most stable and seamless connection, it’s advisable to keep your connected device within close proximity.
While the earbuds can function within the specified range, maintaining a direct line of sight between the earbuds and your connected device will generally provide the best audio quality and minimize any potential connection dropouts. If you experience intermittent connectivity, try reducing the distance between your Jabra Elite 85t and the device they are paired with.