Can nRF52480 (running BT5) Pair Up With First Generation Airpods, which run BT4.2

[MABanak]

Kind associates,

In the development community, I see correspondents speaking to the likelihood of BT5 working with BT4.2 products. 

Word of the First-Generation Apple Airpods (running BT4.2) is a bit elusive.

Supposedly, BT5 will be backward compatible OK, but I am wondering whether it is worth the effort, with no one agreeing to this functionality.

==> Can the nRF52840, running as a BT5.x point, pair up and function with an Apple Airpod running BT4.2 ?

My suspicion is that the pairing sequence would be critical, but that it is still possible.

What can you tell me about this?

Gratefully,

MABanak

[ketiljo]

All old and the majority of the current BT audio streaming devices (except LE Audio or Auracast) are using Bluetooth BD/EDR for the audio transfer. The nRF52840 is a Bluetooth LE only device. So even if you can pair up with the Airpods, you can't transfer any audio.

[MABanak]

Thank you for your generous and timely reply. Your answer contains some surprises. Before I seek clarification, I wish to do some homework before asking anything in follow-up. Please do not close this ticket yet. I promise to respect your time and be succinct when I come back. Most gratefully - MABanak