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.
