The most common reason for this is that the microphone vents are clogged with earwax or dust. Sometimes, the problem can also be caused by glitches after a software update or the AirPods’ hardware getting worn out. Many users have also noticed that ANC performance can get worse after updating iOS or the AirPods firmware. Before you start troubleshooting:
Make sure both the AirPods and their charging case are fully charged.Remove the AirPods from your ears and place them back in to see if noise cancellation improves.
1. Re-enable the Noise Cancelling Feature
If the Noise Cancelling feature on AirPods Pro isn’t working as expected, there could be a temporary glitch. Re-enabling the feature will reset its operational modules to default and may fix the issue.
2. Update the Device and AirPods to the Latest OS/Firmware
AirPods Pro may stop cancelling noise if your device’s operating system or the AirPods’ firmware is outdated. This can lead to compatibility issues or software bugs affecting performance. Make sure both your device’s OS and the AirPods firmware are updated to the latest version.
2.1. To Update an iPhone:
2.2 To Update AirPods firmware:
3. Disable Spatial Audio
Spatial Audio provides a surround sound experience on the AirPods. However, this feature might conflict with noise detection and affect noise cancellation. Disabling Spatial Audio may resolve the issue.
4. Clean the AirPods Pro
AirPods Pro use their microphones to detect outside noise and counter it with opposing sound waves. If dirt or debris blocks the microphones, noise cancellation may not work properly. Cleaning your AirPods Pro can be an effective fix.
5. Re-pair the AirPods with Your Apple Device
If the connection profile between your AirPods Pro and device becomes unreliable, it can impact features like noise cancellation. Re-pairing the AirPods often resolves such communication issues.
6. Try the ‘Ear Tip Fit Test’
If your AirPods are not sealing well in your ear canal, noise reduction can be much less effective. This may be due to improper ear tip size. The ‘Ear Tip Fit Test’ can help determine if this is the issue.
7. Reset the AirPods to Default Settings
If a firmware glitch is causing noise cancellation to stop working, especially after a recent update, resetting your AirPods Pro to factory settings can help.
8. Reset Your Phone to Factory Settings
If you have tried everything else and your AirPods Pro work correctly with other Apple devices, you might need to reset your current device to factory settings. This can resolve any deeper software problems. If none of the above solutions work, contact Apple Support to have your AirPods Pro checked for hardware issues. If your AirPods are still under warranty, you may be eligible for a replacement.
