My MacBook Says Bluetooth Not Available
Your MacBook uses Bluetooth technology to wirelessly pair devices. If you receive an error message stating that Bluetooth is not available, then you are unable to use those devices. Additionally, you may see a Bluetooth symbol with a line through it, which also indicates that Bluetooth is not available. Troubleshoot your MacBook to determine the cause and resolve the problem.
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Bluetooth Interference
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Other wireless or Bluetooth enabled devices may cause a problem when you try to use your Bluetooth due to interference. Keep your MacBook away from electrical devices such as microwaves, cell phones and cordless phones when in use to decrease potential interference. Materials such as concrete or metal between your MacBook and the Bluetooth device may also cause Bluetooth to become unavailable. Keeping the Bluetooth device that you wish to connect in close proximity to the MacBook will help to curb interference.
Bluetooth Settings
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When Bluetooth is unavailable, it might be due to the settings on your MacBook. Check that Bluetooth is on and enabled by clicking on the "Bluetooth icon" in the menu bar. In the menu that appears, check that the Bluetooth is on. If Bluetooth is on, the "Turn Bluetooth Off" selection should be there, whereas if Bluetooth were not on, you will be able to click on "Bluetooth: On" instead. You should also have a check beside "Discoverable" so that your MacBook's Bluetooth can be paired with the device in question.
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Restarting
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Restarting your MacBook may restore your settings so that Bluetooth becomes available again. Restart the computer and then attempt to connect with Bluetooth. If restarting alone has not resolve the issue, unplug any peripheral devices that you don't need and restart it again to see if that will restore Bluetooth. Peripheral devices, such as those plugged in by USB, may interfere with the Bluetooth connection.
Further Troubleshooting
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On your MacBook, you can obtain further troubleshooting help by navigating through the "Applications" folder to "Utilities" and choosing "Help." Within the Help menu, there is an option for Bluetooth Help that can assist you in further troubleshooting. If you are still having problems, contact Apple Customer Support so that a representative can walk you through additional troubleshooting. If the problem lies within the machine itself, you may need to have your MacBook repaired.
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References
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