How to Turn On Noise Cancelling on AirPods
How to turn on noise cancelling on AirPods
How to Turn On Noise Cancelling on AirPods
If you’ve got AirPods with Active Noise Cancellation such as AirPods Pro, AirPods 4 (ANC), or AirPods Max, you can easily block ambient noise to improve focus or audio immersion.
Use the AirPods controls
- AirPods Pro / AirPods 4 (ANC): Press and hold the force sensor on the stem of either earbud until you hear a chime. This cycles between Noise Cancellation, Transparency, and Off.
- AirPods Max: Press the Noise Control button on the ear cup to toggle between Noise Cancellation and Transparency.
Use Control Center on iPhone/iPad
- With AirPods in your ears and connected, swipe down from top‑right.
- Long‑press the volume slider (it shows AirPods icon).
- Tap Noise Control → select Noise Cancellation. Use Settings on iPhone/iPad
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the “i” next to your AirPods.
- Under Noise Control, tap Noise Cancellation.
Use Siri
Simply say: “Hey Siri, turn on noise cancelling.” Siri will switch modes for you.
On Apple Watch or Mac
- Apple Watch: Tap the AirPlay icon while playing audio and choose Noise Cancellation.
- Mac: Go to Control Center > Bluetooth > your AirPods, then select the mode.
Why noise cancelling matters
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) uses external and internal microphones to detect ambient noise and produce "anti-noise" to cancel it out—ideal for noisy environments or immersive listening.
For newer models like AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4 (ANC), Adaptive Audio automatically adjusts ANC based on your surroundings.
Troubleshooting tips
- Not cycling correctly? Ensure only two or three modes are enabled for the stem cycle in Settings .
- One earbud only? Turn on Noise Cancellation with One AirPod via Accessibility settings.
- Check firmware: Noise control options may require iOS 13.2+/iPadOS 13.2+.
- Fit matters: For best noise cancelling, ensure proper seal with correct silicone tips, especially on AirPods Pro.
FAQs
What AirPods models support noise cancelling?
ANC is available on AirPods Pro (1st & 2nd gen), AirPods 4 (ANC), and AirPods Max. Standard AirPods (1–3) don’t support ANC.
How do I remove Transparency mode from the cycle?
Go to Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods > Button Cycles Between, then uncheck Transparency. The stem hold will only toggle between Noise Cancellation and Off.
Can I use noise cancelling in one ear?
Yes. On iPhone/iPad, go to Settings > Accessibility > AirPods, then enable Noise Cancellation with One AirPod.
Does Siri need connectivity to work?
Yes, Siri requires a connection to your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch. ANC can’t be toggled offline via voice alone.
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Why isn’t ANC working?
Ensure your device’s software is updated (iOS 13.2+ for ANC), firmware is updated, and you’ve selected the correct mode. You may need to reset or update your AirPods.
