How to Connect Bluetooth Devices to Ubuntu
Connecting Bluetooth devices to Ubuntu lets you link wireless headphones, mice, and keyboards to your computer without cables. Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology that allows nearby gadgets to communicate through the Ubuntu Settings menu using your computer’s built-in adapter or a USB dongle.
Open Bluetooth settings by searching for “Bluetooth ” in the Activities overview. Ensure Bluetooth is on, then click your device in the list and follow any on-screen prompts, like confirming a PIN, to pair.
How to connect Bluetooth devices to Ubuntu Linux
Connecting Bluetooth devices to Ubuntu involves opening the Bluetooth settings through the Activities overview, turning on the main switch, and selecting your accessory from the list of scanned hardware. Ubuntu handles the pairing process automatically once you select the device, allowing you to use your wireless mice, keyboards, and audio gear right away without installing extra software.
Type “Bluetooth ” in the Activities overview to open the settings . This panel shows available Bluetooth devices and controls for managing connections.
Make sure Bluetooth is enabled: the switch at the top should be set to On. With the panel open and the switch on, Ubuntu will start searching for devices.
To pair a device, click on it in the Devices list. This will open the panel specifically for that device.
Certain devices require a PIN code to finish connecting. If prompted, confirm the PIN on the other device you’re pairing with Ubuntu. On the device you’re pairing, you should see the same PIN that pops up on your Ubuntu screen.
After confirming on the other device, click Confirm on your Ubuntu computer to complete the pairing. For some devices like mice or keyboards, you might not need to confirm a PIN. Once paired, the device should show as connected.
After that, the device should be paired and connected.
On most devices, you'll need to complete any entry within about 20 seconds, or the connection might time out. If that happens, head back to the device list and try again.
How to unpair or disconnect Bluetooth device from Ubuntu Linux
Unpairing a Bluetooth device from Ubuntu requires opening the Bluetooth settings panel, finding the accessory you want to stop using, and clicking the Remove Device button. This action completely deletes the connection profile from your computer, so you will need to pair the device again if you want to use it in the future.
Then, search for and select the Bluetooth settings app. When the app panel opens, select the connected device and click Remove Device.
That completes the setup process.
Conclusion:
- Pairing Bluetooth devices with Ubuntu Linux is a straightforward process that enhances the usability of your system.
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled and visible to facilitate device discovery.
- Follow the on-screen prompts for pairing, especially regarding PIN confirmation.
- Disconnecting or unpairing devices is equally simple through the Bluetooth settings app.
- Regular practice with these steps will make the process quicker and easier over time.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
[…] you’re trying to connect to a Bluetooth device and running into problems, these tips and the steps below should be […]