How To Stop AirPods From Picking Up Background Noise

AirPods, the epitome of modern wireless listening, have revolutionized how we enjoy music and stay connected on the go. Their seamless design and impressive sound quality make them a fan favorite. However, amid the convenience, many AirPods users encounter a pesky problem – background noise interference.

Imagine being lost in your favorite song or trying to have a crystal-clear conversation when sudden background noise barges in, disrupting the audio bliss. It’s frustrating! But fret not, as we’ve got you covered.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the causes of this issue and equip you with practical strategies to end unwanted background noise, ensuring an undisturbed and immersive audio experience with your beloved AirPods. So, let’s dive in and learn how to bid farewell to background noise, allowing you to savor every beat and conversation without interruptions.

How To Stop AirPods From Picking Up Background Noise

Adjust noise control settings, update the firmware, ensure proper AirPods placement, create a quiet environment, and use external noise cancellation apps if needed. AirPods can inadvertently capture background noise, such as traffic, chatter, or ambient sounds.

Several factors, including microphone sensitivity, environmental conditions, and device settings, contribute to this. Identifying the primary reasons is the first step in combating this issue. Apple has equipped AirPods with various noise control features to enhance the audio experience:

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): This feature uses advanced algorithms to adapt to your ear shape and ear tip fit, immersing you in your audio world.
• Transparency Mode: This feature lets you stay aware of your surroundings by letting in external sounds when needed.
• Off Setting: The default setting disables ANC and Transparency Mode, offering a straightforward audio experience.

While these features are beneficial, they might not eliminate background noise, especially in louder environments. Therefore, you can implement the following solutions to minimize background noise on your AirPods:

1. Adjust Noise Control Settings: Customize your noise control settings directly from your iPhone by accessing Bluetooth settings and selecting your AirPods. Choose ANC, Transparency mode, or the “Off” setting, depending on your environment.
2. Update AirPods Firmware: Regular firmware updates often include improvements in noise reduction and general bug fixes. Keep your AirPods updated by placing them in their case, connecting them to your iPhone, and ensuring an internet connection.
3. Ensure Proper AirPods Placement: A correct fit is crucial for excellent sound quality. Opt for the ear tips that best suit you and secure the AirPods firmly in your ears to reduce ambient sound.
4. Create a Quiet Environment: Choose a quieter environment for calls or music sessions whenever possible, as noise levels significantly impact your audio experience.
5. Utilize External Noise Cancellation Apps: Explore noise-cancellation apps that minimize background noise during calls. Be aware that performance may vary depending on your internet connection and app compatibility.

If you’ve tried the above methods and your AirPods are still plagued by significant background noise, it may indicate a defect. In such cases, don’t hesitate to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. If your AirPods are under warranty, you may be eligible for a replacement or free repair.

Why Do My AirPods Pick Up Background Noise?

AirPods have a microphone with a high-gain setting. This high sensitivity is responsible for their excellent sound quality, but it also means they can easily pick up on background noise. So, when you’re making calls or listening to something, the microphone might amplify the external sounds around you.

Another factor to consider is that AirPods are not over-ear headphones. They are compact and sit inside your ears unless you have the AirPods Max, which is over-ear. Over-ear headphones have better noise isolation because they encompass your ears, blocking out external sounds more effectively.

Now, let’s talk about Noise Transparency. Both the AirPods Max and AirPods Pro lines have this optional feature. When Noise Transparency is enabled, your AirPods allow some external sounds to pass through, making you more aware of your surroundings.

While this is helpful in some situations, it can also contribute to the background noise you experience. However, there’s a solution! If you’re in a noisy environment and want to reduce background noise, you can enable Noise Cancellation.

This feature is available on the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, and it can significantly minimize external sounds, helping you enjoy your audio content with more clarity.

Why Can I Hear a Lot of Background Noise on My AirPods?

AirPods can unintentionally pick up ambient sounds, which can be particularly noticeable in noisy environments. The AirPods’ design and ear positioning can also affect how much background noise is heard. Improperly fitting AirPods may let in more external sounds, affecting the overall audio experience.

Furthermore, the sensitivity of the AirPods’ microphones and the settings on your connected device can influence background noise levels. Additionally, factors like wind or strong airflow can exacerbate the issue. While AirPods have noise control features like Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode, they may not eliminate all background noise, especially in high-noise environments.

Is There a Way to Turn Down Background Noise on AirPods?

Yes, several methods exist to improve your listening experience. One of the steps is to adjust the noise control settings from your paired Apple device. Access the Bluetooth settings and select your AirPods. You can choose from Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency mode, or even turn off both.

Regularly updating your AirPods’ firmware is essential, as updates often include improvements in noise reduction and general bug fixes. To update the firmware, place your AirPods in their case, connect them to your iPhone, and ensure your device is connected to the internet. The update will happen automatically.

Ensuring a proper fit for your AirPods minimizes sound leakage and reduces background noise. Selecting the ear tips that fit you best and securely positioning the AirPods in your ears can significantly improve sound quality.

Choosing a quiet environment when using your AirPods for calls or listening to music can make a noticeable difference in reducing background noise. Avoiding noisy areas will allow you to enjoy your audio content with fewer distractions.

Supplementing your AirPods with external noise-cancellation apps can be beneficial, especially during calls. Some apps effectively minimize background noise and enhance call quality. However, their performance may vary based on internet connection stability and app compatibility.

Is It Possible to Get Rid of Background Noise on AirPods 3 Completely?

While AirPods 3 significantly improved in reducing sound leakage, eliminating background noise may be challenging. AirPods 3 feature an outer shell with a rubber seal to minimize sound leakage, and silicone ear tips provide a secure fit for improved isolation.

The internal optical sensor also monitors sound quality, reducing sound leakage. The Active Noise Cancellation technology further reduces unwanted noise, ensuring a more immersive listening experience.

Although it significantly reduces background noise, complete elimination may only be achievable in some situations. However, AirPods 3’s advanced features undoubtedly provide a superior audio experience with reduced sound leakage compared to traditional wired headphones.

Turning On/Off Noise Cancellation on AirPods

1. Turn On/Off Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro (iOS Devices)

Turning on or off Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro is straightforward using your iOS device. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Connect your AirPods Pro to your iOS device (iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch).
• Step 2: Open the Control Center by swiping down from the top right corner of the screen.
• Step 3: Press and hold the volume slider in the Control Center.
• Step 4: Look for the Noise Cancellation icon in the expanded menu and tap on it to turn it on or off.

2. Turn On/Off Noise Cancellation on AirPods Max (iOS Devices)

If you own AirPods Max, the steps to turn on or off Noise Cancellation are slightly different:

• Step 1: Connect your AirPods Max to your iOS device.
• Step 2: Access the Settings app on your iOS device.
• Step 3: Go to Bluetooth and select your AirPods Max from the list of connected devices.
• Step 4: Toggle the Noise Cancellation switch to turn it on or off.

3. Turn On/Off Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro and AirPods Max (macOS Devices)

You can also control Noise Cancellation settings on your macOS device:

• Step 1: Connect your AirPods Pro or AirPods Max to your Mac.
• Step 2: Click on the volume control icon in the menu bar.
• Step 3: Choose your AirPods from the list of output devices.
• Step 4: Select the Noise Cancellation option from the dropdown menu to turn it on or off.

4. Turn On/Off Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro (Android Devices)

While some features are limited on Android, you can still control Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro:

• Step 1: Connect your AirPods Pro to your Android device.
• Step 2: Launch the Bluetooth settings on your Android device.
• Step 3: Find your AirPods Pro in the list of paired devices and tap on them.
• Step 4: You should see an option to turn Noise Cancellation on or off in the device settings.

5. Turn On/Off Noise Cancellation on AirPods Max (Windows Devices)

For AirPods Max users on Windows, the process is a bit different:

• Step 1: Connect your AirPods Max to your Windows PC via Bluetooth.
• Step 2: Open the Sound settings on your Windows PC.
• Step 3: Find your AirPods Max in the list of playback devices and select them.
• Step 4: Click on the Properties button, and in the Enhancements tab, you should find the option to turn Noise Cancellation on or off.

Will the Sound Leak on My AirPods?

No, Apple AirPods are designed with meticulous attention to sound isolation, ensuring minimal sound leakage. The H1 chip integrated into AirPods constantly adjusts the audio signal to create a secure seal in your ears, preventing sound from escaping.

Additionally, the speakers are positioned close to the ear canal, optimizing the listening experience while minimizing sound leakage. So, you can enjoy your preferred tunes without disturbing those around you, making AirPods an ideal choice for private and immersive listening sessions.

Apple has meticulously designed AirPods to minimize sound leakage and provide an optimal listening experience. The H1 chip actively monitors and adjusts the audio signal over 200 times per second, ensuring the audio signal stays sealed within the earbuds, effectively reducing sound leakage and background noise.

Does the AirPods Pro Mic Offer Noise Cancellation?

They don’t have a dedicated noise-canceling mic but excel in active noise-cancellation technology. The Pro model utilizes mics to block ambient noise and create an immersive audio experience. It features noise cancellation for audio playback, effectively reducing external noise and enhancing audio clarity.

While the AirPods Pro do not have noise-canceling microphones for calls, their advanced features and silicone ear tips provide a comfortable and secure fit, effectively isolating your voice during calls for better call quality.

So, while the AirPods Pro prioritize noise cancellation for audio playback, they still deliver impressive call clarity, making them a top choice for those seeking an all-around exceptional audio experience.

What Is Voice Isolation on AirPods?

Voice Isolation technology is available on newer Apple devices running iOS 15 or later. Voice Isolation uses advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze the audio the microphone captures. It identifies the frequencies of the primary speaker’s voice, isolates them, and eliminates background noise.

When you’re on a phone call with ambient noise, the microphone on your AirPods captures the audio. The Voice Isolation algorithm then processes this audio, separating your voice from the background noise. The background noise is removed, leaving only your voice to be transmitted to the person on the other end of the call.

Requirements for Using Voice Isolation

To take advantage of Voice Isolation, you’ll need the following:

1. Supported Devices: iPhone SE 2nd Generation or later, or iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, or newer models.
2. Supported Operating Systems: iOS 15 or later.
3. Supported AirPods Models: AirPods 3rd Generation, any AirPods Pro model, or any AirPods Max model.
4. Type of Call: Voice Isolation works with internet-based calling services like FaceTime or WhatsApp audio and video calls. It is not available for standard phone calls.

Enabling Voice Isolation on Your iPhone

Activating Voice Isolation during a FaceTime or WhatsApp call on your iPhone is simple:

1. Initiate the call in the desired app.
2. Access the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of your screen.
3. Look for the “Mic Mode” option.
4. Tap on “Voice Isolation” to enable it.

The Downsides of Voice Isolation

While Voice Isolation is a promising technology, it does have some limitations:

1. Not Compatible with Standard Phone Calls: As of now, Voice Isolation only works with internet-based calling services, not regular phone calls.
2. Slight Call Delay: The AI algorithms used for Voice Isolation may introduce a minor delay in the call due to background noise filtering. However, this delay is often negligible and typical for internet calls.
3. Minor Voice Alteration: In some instances, Voice Isolation may slightly alter the sound of your voice, making it sound hollow on the other end. Also, very faint background noise may remain, although these issues are usually minimal and not disruptive to the call.

Active Noise Cancellation vs. Transparency Mode

Active Noise Cancellation is a powerful feature that utilizes outward-facing microphones to detect external sounds. Once detected, your AirPods Pro (1st or 2nd generation) or AirPods Max generate anti-noise to effectively cancel out these external sounds before they reach your ears.

Simultaneously, an inward-facing microphone listens for unwanted internal sounds, and your AirPods also counter them with anti-noise. On the other hand, Transparency mode offers an entirely different experience.

It allows outside sounds to pass through your AirPods, enabling you to stay aware of your surroundings. Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes deliver optimal results when your AirPods Pro fits well and forms a secure seal.

If you own AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and your iOS or iPadOS is running on the latest software version, you can also take advantage of Adaptive Transparency. This feature automatically reduces loud sounds in your environment, making switching between modes even more convenient.

Switching Between Noise-Control Modes

Switching between noise-control modes is a breeze and can be done in various ways. When wearing your AirPods Max, you can press the noise control button to toggle between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode.

Additionally, you can customize which modes to switch between in the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Switching between Transparency mode and Active Noise Cancellation is accomplished by pressing and holding the force sensor on the stem of either AirPod for AirPods Pro users.

Similar to AirPods Max, you can customize the modes to switch between in your device’s Bluetooth settings. Alternatively, you can use your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Mac to switch between noise-control modes. This method provides a seamless experience, and you can easily select the desired mode by tapping the Noise Control icon on your device’s screen.

AirPods Pro Conversation Boost: Enhancing Communication in Noisy Environments

AirPods Pro come equipped with a nifty feature called ‘Conversation Boost.’ In bustling and noisy areas, understanding someone’s words can be challenging. That’s where Conversation Boost steps in to make a significant difference.

While it’s not a hearing aid replacement, this Apple feature can be a helpful solution for those spending time in busy workspaces or dealing with mild hearing impairment. Conversation Boost was introduced by additional Find My capabilities, allowing users to locate their AirPods Pro and AirPods Max more easily through the Find My Items tab.

This feature makes tracking down misplaced AirPods a breeze, and users can even enable Lost Mode, sharing contact information and a message with anyone who finds the missing AirPods. So, how does Conversation Boost work its magic?

Apple employs computational audio techniques, combined with the AirPods Pro’s beamforming microphones, to identify voices from the front of the wearer and enhance their clarity. Simultaneously, background noise is reduced, making conversations in crowded and noisy places much easier.

While this feature benefits everyone, it’s particularly noteworthy for individuals with hearing impairments. Enabling Conversation Boost is a simple process. Head to the Accessibility tab in the Settings app, navigate to the Audio/Visual section and find the toggle switch for Conversation Boost tucked away in the Transparency Mode settings.

Once activated, sliders become available in the Control Center, accessible by swiping down from the top right of the iPhone screen, allowing you to adjust the Ambient Noise level.

Concluding Thoughts

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide on conquering the background noise demons that may have been plaguing your AirPods experience. We’ve explored the various factors contributing to this issue and armed you with practical tips to combat it effectively.

Now, you can bid farewell to interruptions and relish your music, calls, and podcasts with crystal-clear clarity. Remember, identifying the source of background noise is key to finding the right solution.

Whether it’s external disturbances or issues with your AirPods’ settings, we’ve provided you with actionable steps to address each scenario. From adjusting your AirPods’ fit to tweaking sound settings on your device, these simple yet effective hacks will enhance your audio escapades.

Investing in noise-cancellation or ambient noise-reduction apps can significantly elevate your AirPods’ performance, creating an oasis of sound amidst a sea of distractions. Experiment with these solutions to discover what works best for your specific needs and preferences.

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Yusra Rafiq

I quit my full-time job and started my journey as a freelance copywriter and content writer, and I believe it was one of the best decisions I’ve made so far because I absolutely love it. I’ve been writing tech-related guides, how-to’s, articles, and informational pieces for a long time, and I especially love testing and reporting on various types of headphones.