The AirPods Pro 2 has received numerous noteworthy enhancements with iOS 17, with the new Adaptive Audio feature standing out prominently. This feature allows the earbuds to automatically shift between noise-cancellation and transparency modes, adjust the volume, and makes voice hearing more convenient. In this guide, we will explore how to activate AirPods Pro Adaptive Audio, its functionality, and more.
How AirPods Pro Adaptive Audio Operates
Adaptive Audio, according to Apple, comprises three automatic features.
The first is “Adaptive Noise Control,” which dynamically alters the level of external noise you encounter. Second, “Personalized Volume” modifies the volume of your media depending on your surroundings. Lastly, “Conversation Awareness” automatically shifts to transparency mode when a conversation starts and reduces your media volume.
Our team at 9to5Mac has tested Adaptive Audio extensively, and the consensus is that the seamless integration of these three elements offers a smooth and magical audio experience. This seamless experience is largely due to the crossfade-like effect that ensures smooth transitions between modes, rather than abrupt switches.
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Activating AirPods Pro Adaptive Audio
Adaptive Audio is exclusive to AirPods Pro 2 and requires the iOS 17 beta on your iPhone, along with the AirPods beta installed (check our full guide). Given that this is a developer beta, please install at your own discretion.
Upon installing the AirPods beta, you’ll encounter a splash screen prompting you to activate Adaptive Audio when using your AirPods Pro 2. If this doesn’t appear, you can manually activate the feature. Here’s how:
1. Open the Control Center on your iPhone (pull down from the top-right corner) and long press on the volume/AirPods slider (ensure your AirPods are connected).
2. Tap the Noise Control button.
3. Select Adaptive.
4. Your AirPods Pro 2 will now automatically shift between noise cancellation and transparency.
You also have the option to customize your AirPods Pro 2 controls:
1. With your AirPods connected, open the Settings app on your iPhone > tap your AirPods at the top.
2. Under Press and Hold AirPods > tap Left or Right (or whichever one states Noise Control).
3. The default setting switches between Adaptive Audio and noise cancellation with stem presses.
4. You can include transparency and off in the controls that long presses on your AirPods stem(s) will cycle through.
5. Conversation Awareness can be deactivated while leaving Adaptive Audio on.
When Adaptive Audio is turned on, a unique sound effect will confirm it, and you’ll observe the color wheel behind the Adaptive icon.
If you keep the AirPods Noise Control settings active while using Adaptive Audio, you can observe it smoothly transition between different Noise Control modes as environmental sounds change, or as you converse with people.
In my experience, the automatic adjustments of Adaptive Audio work so efficiently that I no longer need to manually switch between the audio modes – a real boon, as I no longer have to remove an AirPod to hear or engage in a conversation.
What are your thoughts on the Adaptive Audio feature of the new AirPods Pro 2? Have you tried it out yet, or are you looking forward to giving it a whirl? We’d love to hear your opinions, so feel free to share them in the comments!
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