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Michael620801
User level: Level 1 (18 points)

AirPods Pro 2 noise cancellation activates in Transparency mode

Hi everyone.


I have a pair of AirPods Pro 2 that are over 1 year old.


Like others, I now have trouble with noise cancellation.

It seems to be the same whether I am in Transparency, Adaptive or Noise Cancellation listening modes.

Initially on selecting Transparency, the Airpods function correctly, but after about 2 seconds the noise cancellation kicks in.

I use these as hearing aids so you can sense my frustration.

I have tried making many adjustments as well as trying many of the solutions that people have posted in other topics.

I am not getting anywhere.


I don't seem to get the lights sequence that one user mentioned when describing how to reset the Airpods.


I followed the process to update Firmware, but the firmware version is still reporting as the same version as before, so I assume it is up to date.


I have also checked my iPhone which says it is up to date as well. iOS Version 26.71


I also have a pair of Pro 3s and Transparency mode in that pair works correctly.

I remember the Pro 2s working that way.

Not anymore though.


I will give them a good clean and see if that makes any difference.


Any advice or suggestion is greatly appreciated.


Thanks,

Michael.

Posted on Oct 2, 2026 1:42 AM

2 replies

uthmaan0128
User level: Level 1 (24 points)

Oct 4, 2026 6:28 PM in response to Michael620801

So I own a pair of AirPods Pro’s 2(USB-C). Mine are almost 3 years old. Or are already 3 years old. Anyways I’ve taken mine to the Apple Store and the guy at the Genius Bar ran diagnostics. The result of that diagnostics test was that the 2 individual outer facing mics(the two mics that hear what your ears hear) on each AirPod was damaged. Now it doesn’t really mean damaged but it could also be full of dust or debris that has accumulated over time. Also it could be that you may have dropped them or something. Maybe even sweat condensed in them. But we both know Apple doesn’t repair AirPods. But if yours are still under warranty or have Apple care + then I’d recommend getting them replaced.


btw mine ? I use them to this day. I dunno I might have dropped mine or something but whatever I’ve done they seem to be working perfectly fine again for me. No issues.

Michael620801 Author
User level: Level 1 (18 points)

Oct 2, 2026 2:51 AM in response to Michael620801

Just went through and cleaned them. No difference.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256368968