AirPods Pro are packed with features beyond basic playback, and this guide covers the most useful tips and tricks to get the most from them. You’ll learn how to customize controls, use advanced noise control, find hidden settings, and fix common issues. Whether you’re new to AirPods Pro or have owned them for a while, these tips will help you use them more effectively.
Customize Your Controls
The force sensor on each stem is your main control point. By default, a single squeeze plays or pauses, a double squeeze skips forward, a triple squeeze skips backward, and a long squeeze switches between Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency mode. You can change the long-squeeze behavior to cycle between noise control modes or to invoke Siri instead. To customize, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “i” next to your AirPods Pro, then tap “Left” or “Right” under “Press and Hold AirPods.” You can also change what the double and triple squeezes do, but only for the “Siri” and “Play/Pause” options—the skip functions are fixed.
Master Noise Control
AirPods Pro offers three noise control modes: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency, and Adaptive Audio (on newer firmware). ANC blocks most ambient sound, Transparency lets outside sound in, and Adaptive Audio blends the two, automatically adjusting based on your environment. You can switch between them by long-pressing the force sensor, or from Control Center by pressing and holding the volume slider and tapping the noise control icon. On iOS 17 or later, you can also set up a “Conversation Awareness” feature that automatically lowers the volume and enhances voices when you start talking. To enable it, go to Settings > Bluetooth > your AirPods Pro > Accessibility > Conversation Awareness.
Use Siri and Voice Controls
You can use Siri with your AirPods Pro by saying “Hey Siri” (or “Siri” on newer models) or by setting the long-press to trigger Siri. Siri can control playback, answer calls, read notifications, and adjust volume. For example, say “Hey Siri, turn up the volume” or “Hey Siri, play my playlist.” You can also ask Siri to announce notifications when you’re wearing your AirPods Pro. To enable, go to Settings > Notifications > Announce Notifications and make sure it’s on for your AirPods. Siri can also read and reply to messages hands-free.
Find Hidden Settings and Features
There are several hidden settings and features you might not know about. For instance, you can use your AirPods Pro as a hearing aid with the Live Listen feature. To enable, go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls, add “Hearing,” then open Control Center and tap the ear icon to turn on Live Listen. This uses your iPhone’s microphone to amplify sounds. Another feature is “Optimized Battery Charging,” which learns your routine and waits to charge past 80% until you need them. You can also check the battery status of your AirPods Pro by placing them near your iPhone and opening the case, or by using the Batteries widget. For a more detailed view, go to Settings > Bluetooth > your AirPods Pro, and you’ll see individual battery levels for each bud and the case.
Troubleshoot Common Problems
If your AirPods Pro aren’t working properly, there are a few common fixes. If they won’t connect, put them back in the case, close the lid, wait 30 seconds, then open the lid and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes white. If they still don’t connect, reset them by going to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “i” next to your AirPods, tap “Forget This Device,” then set them up again. If the noise control isn’t working, make sure the ear tips fit properly—you can test the fit by going to Settings > Bluetooth > your AirPods Pro > Ear Tip Fit Test. If the sound is muffled or crackling, clean the speaker meshes gently with a dry cotton swab. If you experience static or dropouts, try updating your iPhone’s software and resetting your network settings.
Compare AirPods Pro Models
There are two generations of AirPods Pro. The first generation (2019) has the H1 chip, while the second generation (2022) has the H2 chip, which offers better noise cancellation, improved audio quality, and a few extra features like volume control on the stem (swipe up or down) and a more precise find-my case with a speaker. The second generation also supports Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness (if you have iOS 17 or later). If you’re deciding which to buy, the second generation is a clear upgrade, but the first generation is still a solid choice if you find them at a discount. Both are compatible with MagSafe chargers, but the second generation’s case has a lanyard loop and is rated IPX4 for sweat and water resistance, just like the earbuds themselves.
Extend Battery Life
To get the most out of your AirPods Pro battery, consider these tips. First, enable “Optimized Battery Charging” to slow down battery aging. Second, avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, especially heat. Third, turn off ANC when you don’t need it—Transparency mode uses less power. Fourth, use only one earbud at a time if you’re just listening to podcasts. Fifth, keep the case charged; the case provides additional charges, but if it’s dead, you can’t charge your AirPods. On a full charge, AirPods Pro (2nd gen) offer up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC on, and about 30 hours total with the case. The first gen offers about 4.5 hours and 24 hours total. To check battery status, open the case near your iPhone or use the Batteries widget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check the battery life of my AirPods Pro?
Open the case with your AirPods inside and hold it near your iPhone. A popup will show the battery level of the case and each earbud. You can also add the Batteries widget to your Home Screen or Today View. For a more detailed view, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “i” next to your AirPods, and you’ll see individual battery levels.
Can I use AirPods Pro with Android?
Yes, you can use AirPods Pro with Android via Bluetooth, but you lose some features like Siri, automatic ear detection, and the ability to check battery status in the system UI. You can still use them as regular Bluetooth earbuds, and you can control playback with the force sensor. There are third-party apps that can show battery levels, but they require you to connect manually.
Why is my AirPods Pro not connecting?
First, make sure they’re charged and in range. If they still don’t connect, put them back in the case, close the lid, wait 30 seconds, then open the lid and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the light flashes white. On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “i” next to your AirPods, and tap “Forget This Device.” Then set them up again. If that fails, reset your network settings or restart your iPhone.
How do I clean my AirPods Pro?
Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior. For the speaker meshes, use a dry cotton swab to gently brush away debris. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions. For the ear tips, remove them and rinse with water, then dry completely before reattaching. Do not insert anything into the speaker ports.
Can I use only one AirPod Pro at a time?
Yes, you can use either the left or right earbud independently. Just take one out of the case and put it in your ear. The audio will automatically switch to mono. You can also use one for calls and the other for music, but you’ll need to switch the audio source manually if you’re using both.
Related
General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.
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