Some AirPods Pro owners have run into issues with their earbuds, and there have been numerous complaints about Active Noise Cancellation failing to work properly or becoming degraded after firmware updates. This guide covers the problem and provides troubleshooting steps recommended by Apple as a potential fix.
Since the launch of the 2B588 firmware for the AirPods Pro in November 2019, there have been complaints about Active Noise Cancellation issues, which some believe have gotten worse with each firmware update.
This is not a problem experienced by all users, though the people who are affected believe that the Active Noise Cancellation properties of the AirPods Pro have been downgraded since launch.
The current version of the AirPods Pro firmware is 2D15, and there have been mixed reports on whether the update fixes the problem, as some people report improved Noise Cancellation and others suggest there's been no change.
Rather than firmware causing the problem, Apple has suggested earwax buildup could be the problem, with Apple making the following recommendations as a fix:
Make sure all iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac devices are running the latest software from Apple.
Make sure Active Noise Cancellation is enabled when the AirPods Pro are in the ears by opening up Control Center and long pressing on the volume indicator.
Clean the mesh located at the top of the AirPods Pro.
Apple says that if debris or earwax builds up at the mesh located at the top of the AirPods Pro, it can affect how Active Noise Cancellation works. Debris buildup can cause a loss of bass sound and an increase in background sounds, such as street or airplane noise.
Contact Apple Support
If AirPods Pro problems with Noise Cancellation persist after following the steps listed above, Apple suggests AirPods Pro owners should contact Apple Support for further help.
Guide Feedback
Have a question about Apple's advice for these issues, know of a potential solution we left out, or want to offer feedback? Send us an email here.
Apple's iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max models will feature a number of significant display, thermal, and battery improvements, according to new late-stage rumors.
According to the Weibo leaker known as "Instant Digital," the iPhone 17 Pro models will feature displays with higher brightness, making it more suitable for use in direct sunlight for prolonged periods. The iPhone 16 Pro and...
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series on Tuesday, September 9, and last-minute rumors about the devices continue to surface.
The latest info comes from a leaker known as Majin Bu, who has shared alleged images of Apple's Clear Case for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, or at least replicas.
Image Credit: @MajinBuOfficial
The images show three alleged changes compared to Apple's iP...
Monday September 1, 2025 4:35 am PDT by Tim Hardwick
Apple will launch its new iPhone 17 series this month, and the iPhone 17 Pro models are expected to get a new design for the rear casing and the camera area. But more significant changes to the lineup are not expected until next year, when the iPhone 18 models arrive.
If you're thinking of trading in your iPhone for this year's latest, consider the following features rumored to be coming to...
Tuesday September 2, 2025 1:50 pm PDT by Joe Rossignol
Just one week before Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series, an analyst has shared new price estimates for the devices.
Here are J.P. Morgan analyst Samik Chatterjee's price estimates for the iPhone 17 series in the United States, according to 9to5Mac:
Model
Starting Price
Model
Starting Price
Change
iPhone 16
$799
iPhone 17
...
Thursday August 28, 2025 4:08 am PDT by Tim Hardwick
An iPhone 17 announcement is a dead cert for September 2025 – Apple has already sent out invites for an "Awe dropping" event on Tuesday, September 9 at the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California. The timing follows Apple's trend of introducing new iPhone models annually in the fall.
At the event, Apple is expected to unveil its new-generation iPhone 17, an all-new ultra-thin iPhone 17...
Apple is preparing to release iOS 18.7 for compatible iPhone models, according to evidence of the update in the MacRumors visitor logs.
We expect iOS 18.7 to be released in September, alongside iOS 26. The update will likely include fixes for security vulnerabilities, but little else.
iOS 18.7 will be one of the final updates ever released for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR,...
A new survey has found that nearly seven in ten iPhone owners in the United States plan to upgrade to an iPhone 17 model, signaling strong demand ahead of Apple's expected unveiling of the devices at its September 9 keynote.
Smartphone price comparison platform SellCell surveyed over 2,000 U.S.-based iPhone users in August to assess upgrade interest and brand loyalty before Apple's event....
Biggest design overhaul since iOS 7 with Liquid Glass, plus new Apple Intelligence features and improvements to Messages, Phone, Safari, Shortcuts, and more. Developer beta available now ahead of public beta in July.
