Apple AirPods Pro Adaptive Audio: Meaning & How To Enable it

By Shivangi Agarwal • Updated On Sep 20, 2023

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iOS 17 and Apple AirPods Pro’s latest firmware update has rolled out some impressive features for the 2nd generation AirPods Pro. One of the new features is the Adaptive Audio feature, which when enabled automatically switches between noise-cancellation and transparency modes, adjusts volume, and allows users to stay aware of their surroundings.

This feature will now be available to all users but before anyone uses it, they should know what the feature is and how they can use it on their AirPods Pro.

What is Adaptive Audio on AirPods Pro?

Adaptive Audio is an automatic audio management system that Apple has implemented with the latest update. According to the company, the Adaptive Audio feature includes 3 automatic features- Adaptive Noise Control, Personalized Volume and Conversion Awareness.

The Adaptive Noise Control adjusts the external noise automatically by merging the noise cancellation and transparency levels.

The Personalized volume adjusts the media volume based on the environment.

Conversation awareness automatically switches to transparency mode when users start talking and also lowers the media volume in the process.

Adaptive Audio lets you enjoy the presence of Transparency while you are doing dishes and then seamlessly adjust to Noise Cancellation when you use the vacuum cleaner. You will not feel mode switching because the audio playback is consistent.

How to enable Adaptive Audio on AirPods Pro 2

Install iOS 17 on your iPhone and connect AirPods Pro 2 with the iPhone. You will see a new screen asking if you want to turn on Adaptive Audio. If you don’t see the screen, the same can be turned on via AirPods Pro Settings or from the Control Centre.
To enable Adaptive audio from the control center, open the control center and long-press the volume slider. Just make sure that the AirPods Pro is connected to the iPhone.
Next, tap on the Noise Control button and choose the Adaptive option. Once enabled, the AirPods Pro will automatically start switching between noise cancellation and transparency.
To enable Conversation Awareness, go to Settings then AirPods, and then Swipe down under Audio and tap Conversation Awareness, Personalized Volume or Loud Sound Reduction.
Enable them if you like.

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Shivangi Agarwal

Shivangi is a tech writer at Smartprix, where she covers consumer technology news with a focus on smartphones, wearables, laptops, and the evolving world of OTT streaming. Since joining the team in August 2021, she has written over 120 in-depth reviews, comparisons, and buying guides aimed at helping readers navigate the ever-changing tech landscape.

With a strong foundation in English literature and education, Shivangi brings clarity, insight, and a reader-first approach to every story. Her expertise lies in breaking down complex features into accessible, practical insights—whether she’s reviewing the latest smartphone or exploring trends in infotainment.

Shivangi holds a B.A. (Hons.) and M.A. in English, along with a B.Ed in English and Social Studies. She is based in Faridabad, India. You can follow her work on Smartprix or connect with her for tech-related queries.

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