On the device that keeps taking over the AirPods, change Connect to This Device to When Last Connected to This Device. Start with the device that interrupts your listening. Repeat on the other devices where you want to control switching yourself.
01Change the setting on the device that takes over
Section linkWear the AirPods and connect them before looking for their settings. On iPhone or iPad, open Settings and tap your AirPods near the top. Choose Connect to This iPhone or Connect to This iPad, then choose the option for when they were last connected. On Mac, open System Settings, select the AirPods in the sidebar and set Connect to This Mac to When Last Connected to This Mac. If you do not see the connection option, look under Audio & Routing.
02Try the device pair that interrupted you
Section linkIf starting a podcast on your iPhone interrupts music on your Mac, change the setting on the iPhone first. Then play something on the Mac and try the iPhone again. Apple documents automatic switching on supported AirPods using the same Apple Account with two-factor authentication and compatible software. If audio cuts out without moving to another device, this setting may not address the problem.
03Pick the AirPods manually when you want to move
Section linkKeep the AirPods on and stay near the device you want to listen to. On iPhone or iPad, use the audio output control in Control Center and select your AirPods. On Mac, open Control Center → Sound and choose them. You can go back to Automatically in the AirPods settings if you prefer hands-free switching later.