Your AirPods are smarter than you think. Whether you’re using the standard models, AirPods Pro, or the 3rd Generation, they come with hidden features that can enhance your experience tenfold. From noise cancellation to Siri voice commands, this guide dives into the top AirPods tips and tricks you didn’t know existed.
Let’s unlock the potential of your AirPods and show you how to make the most out of them!
1. Customisable Double-Tap or Press Actions
Your AirPods’ touch controls aren’t set in stone—you can tweak the double-tap settings to match your preferences. Skip tracks, activate Siri, or pause with a single tap—it’s all up to you.
How to customise your AirPods settings:
- Open iOS Settings on your iPhone or MacBook.
- Tap Bluetooth, then select your AirPods from the list.
- Under “Double-Tap on AirPod” (or “Press and Hold AirPods” for Pro models), choose your preferred action.
This feature ensures that your AirPods work exactly how you want them to.
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Pro Tip: Save time by setting one earbud for playback and the other for Siri voice commands.
2. Ear Tip Fit Test (For AirPods Pro)
If you’re rocking AirPods Pro, getting the right fit is crucial for the best noise cancellation and sound performance. Apple’s Ear Tip Fit Test helps you find the perfect seal.
How to run the test:
- Go to iOS Settings > Bluetooth.
- Select your AirPods Pro, then tap Ear Tip Fit Test.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
This feature ensures your AirPods Pro deliver top-notch audio quality and block out unwanted noise.
3. Transparency Mode: Stay Aware Without Removing Your AirPods
With Transparency Mode, you can stay tuned to your surroundings while still listening to music. This feature is a lifesaver in busy environments, like crowded streets or airports.
How to adjust Transparency Mode:
- Go to iOS Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual.
- Customise the Transparency Mode balance to increase or decrease the external noise you hear.
Whether you’re multitasking or just staying safe, this feature keeps you in control.
4. Live Listen: Use Your iPhone as a Microphone
Turn your iPhone into a remote mic with the Live Listen feature. It streams amplified sound from your phone directly to your AirPods.
How to activate Live Listen:
- Add the Hearing option to Control Center via iOS Settings > Control Center.
- Tap the Ear icon in Control Center and toggle on Live Listen.
Perfect for enhancing conversations or even monitoring distant audio.
5. Find My AirPods: Locate Them Instantly
Losing an AirPod doesn’t have to be a disaster. With the Find My App, you can track down misplaced AirPods or even the charging case.
How it works:
- Open the Find My App on your iPhone.
- Select your AirPods to view their last known location.
- Play a sound to locate them nearby or follow GPS guidance if they’re farther away.
This feature, powered by Bluetooth, works even for individual earbuds.
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6. Automatic Ear Detection for Seamless Playback
AirPods use Bluetooth technology and sensors to pause music when you remove them from your ears. This smart feature, called Automatic Ear Detection, resumes playback as soon as you put them back in.
How to customise this setting:
- Open iOS Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the “i” next to your AirPods.
- Toggle Automatic Ear Detection on or off.
Pro Tip: Turning this off can help if your AirPods frequently pause unexpectedly.
7. Noise Cancellation Shortcuts
With AirPods Pro, toggling between noise cancellation and Transparency Mode is super easy.
Shortcut:
- Press and hold the stem on either AirPod to switch modes.
You can also use the Control Center on your iPhone to access these settings directly.
Fun Fact: The H1 chip in AirPods Pro enhances noise control with minimal power usage.
8. Siri Announcements: Stay Hands-Free
Keep your hands free and stay on top of important messages with Siri announcements. Siri can read out texts, reminders, and even call alerts directly to your AirPods.
How to enable this:
- Open iOS Settings > Siri & Search.
- Toggle on Announce Notifications.
- Choose which apps Siri should announce notifications from.
Pro Tip: Combine this with Spatial Audio for an immersive yet practical hands-free experience.
9. Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking
Apple’s Spatial Audio takes your listening experience to the next level. It creates a Dolby Atmos-like surround sound effect, adjusting dynamically as you move your head.
How to enable Spatial Audio:
- Go to iOS Settings > Accessibility > AirPods.
- Toggle on Spatial Audio.
- Test it with supported apps like Apple Music or Netflix.
This feature is compatible with AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and the 3rd Gen AirPods.
10. Battery Optimisation for Longer Lifespan
Worried about your AirPods’ battery health? Apple’s battery optimisation feature reduces wear by slowing down the charging process when necessary.
How to monitor your battery health:
- Add the Battery Widget to your iPhone’s home screen for real-time updates.
Pro Tip: Keeping your AirPods in their case when not in use preserves battery life and keeps them safe from damage.
Final Thoughts
AirPods aren’t just wireless earbuds—they’re a mini tech hub packed with smart features. From hidden settings like Live Listen to advanced audio controls like Spatial Audio, they’re designed to simplify and enhance your daily life.
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