The AirPods Pro, a more advanced version of Apple’s current AirPods featuring a distinctive appearance, noise cancellation technology, improved sound quality, and a more costly $249 price tag, was introduced in October 2019.
With the AirPods Pro, Apple claims to be pushing the magic of the original AirPods “even farther.” The new earphones will be offered alongside the less expensive AirPods 2, which do not have noise cancelling capabilities.
In order to accommodate silicone tips for comfort, fit, and noise cancellation, the AirPods Pro feature a design with a broader front than the original AirPods. There are three sizes of tips to accommodate various ear sizes.
Apple is only providing the AirPods Pro in white, much like the original AirPods, despite reports that they could come in other colours as well.
A crucial element of the AirPods Pro is Active Noise Cancellation, which uses two microphones—one outward facing and one internally facing—along with cutting-edge algorithms to personalise to each ear for what Apple calls a “uniquely customised, improved noise-canceling experience.”
Users have the ability to listen to music with Active Noise Cancellation switched on while still hearing the surroundings thanks to a built-in Transparency mode that can be toggled on.
Apple claims that the improved vent system within the AirPods Pro reduces the discomfort associated with previous in-ear designs for a better fit and a more pleasant wearing experience.
The AirPods Pro are bigger than previous iterations of the AirPods due to the redesigned silicone tips, calling for a wider charging case. Although longer in the horizontal direction than the old AirPods case, the new AirPods Pro case is still small enough to fit in a pocket.
Because they have an IPX4 grade and are water-resistant, AirPods Pro can withstand splashing water from any angle. According to this, AirPods Pro should be resistant to perspiration and mild rain, but not water.
Apple claims that the Adaptive EQ function in the AirPods Pro provides for enhanced sound quality. For a “rich, immersive listening experience,” adaptive EQ adjusts the low and mid frequencies of the music to the shape of the listener’s ear.
The AirPods Pro are powered by an Apple-designed H1 processor, much as the AirPods 2 and the Beats Solo Pro. Real-time noise cancellation, the Adaptive EQ function, and hands-free “Hey Siri” functionality are all powered by the H1 processor.
With Active Noise Cancellation turned off, AirPods Pro provide up to five hours of listening time on a single charge, or four and a half hours with it active. AirPods Pro also provide three and a half hours of call time when using Active Noise Cancellation.
Both Qi-based wireless charging and Lightning charging are supported with the AirPods Pro Wireless Charging Case (using the included USB-C to lightning cable). More than 24 hours of extended listening time and more than 18 hours of more conversation time are provided by the charging case.
On October 28, 2019, AirPods Pro were made available for purchase. The cost of AirPods Pro is $249.
Repairing Crackling Noise Program
To address a problem that results in certain AirPods Pro models exhibiting auditory difficulties like crackling or static or defective Active Noise Cancellation, Apple introduced a repair programme for the product. If this problem should emerge, customers who bought AirPods Pro at launch in 2019 are protected until October 2022, and those who bought in 2020 before the corrected version was released in October 2020 may obtain repairs until 2023.
Affected models exhibit static or crackling noises that are louder while moving or talking on the phone, or Active Noise Cancellation that malfunctions with a loss of bass, increased background noise, or a street or aircraft noise.
The problematic AirPods Pro models were created before October 2020, and those who are having problems may bring their AirPods Pro to Apple for free repair. Before being used, AirPods Pro will be checked to see whether they qualify for the programme.
How to Shop
For $249, customers may buy the AirPods Pro through the Apple Store’s website or physical locations. The AirPods Pro are also sold by independent merchants, who sometimes provide discounts.
The AirPods Pro are eligible for AppleCare+, which costs $29 and covers up to two instances of unintentional damage.
When buying, Apple offers the option to personalise AirPods Charging Cases with text or emojis.
Apple sells sets of two small, medium, or large replacement ear tips for AirPods Pro on its website for $7.99 each.
Design specifics
The basic form of the AirPods Pro is similar to the original AirPods, but they are noticeably different because of the new flexible silicone tips, which are intended to fit snugly within the ear to enable noise cancelling technology.
Three sizes of silicone tips are provided to accommodate the majority of ear sizes. According to Apple, the tips are made to fit the unique shapes of each ear, providing both comfort and a better seal, which is crucial for noise cancellation.
Each of the three sizes of tips—small, medium, and large—clicks into place on the AirPods Pro, making it simple to change them out. In order to hold the AirPods Pro firmly in place, each tip is internally tapered to adapt to the curvature of the inner ear.
In comparison to the original AirPods, which have a width of 16.5mm, the AirPods Pro are wider at 21.8mm and shorter in height at 30.9mm due to the shorter stems.
The Wireless Charging Case that comes with the AirPods Pro is larger since they are broader than the AirPods. It is 21.7mm thick, 60.6mm broad, and 45.2mm tall. The AirPods case is 21.3mm thick, 53.5mm tall, and 44.3mm broad in comparison.
At 5.4 grammes each earbud, the AirPods Pro are one-third heavier than the regular AirPods. Additionally, the charging case has increased in weight from 38 to 45.6 grammes.
Although the AirPods Pro case is somewhat broader than the AirPods case, it isn’t nearly as tall, so overall the two cases’ size and pocketability are comparable.
The “innovative vent mechanism” used in the development of AirPods Pro equalises pressure within the ear to lessen discomfort that is typical of previous in-ear designs. According to Apple, the AirPods Pro are designed to leave you feeling as if nothing is in your ears.
A larger mesh microphone port is also included, and it is intended to enhance call clarity in windy conditions.
Test of Ear Tip Fit
Apple provides an Ear Tip Fit Test for the AirPods Pro to ensure the optimum fit and audio quality. After inserting the AirPods Pro into each ear, Apple measures the sound level in each ear and compares it to the sound originating from the speaker driver using sophisticated algorithms and the microphones in each AirPod.
The algorithm then determines if the ear tip is the proper size and fits snugly or whether a different size should be used to achieve a better seal.
If you contact Apple support, replacement tips for the AirPods Pro are available and cost $4 for a pair. Owners of AirPods Pro with AppleCare+ seem to be eligible for free replacement tips.
Water Repellency
With an IPX4 water resistance certification, AirPods Pro are sweat and water resistant. The AirPods Pro should be durable enough to withstand perspiration and mild rain as they have been proven to withstand water spraying from all directions.
Since Apple’s warranty does not cover water or sweat damage, AirPods Pro should not be immersed in water and should be protected from water as much as possible.
The sweat and water resistance ratings, according to Apple, are intended for non-water sports and exercise. Sweat and water resistance are not constant conditions and may diminish with regular use.
Noise Cancellation Active
However, Apple has previously employed ANC in its on-ear Beats headphones and has subsequently incorporated ANC to the AirPods Max. AirPods Pro were Apple’s first in-ear earbuds to integrate ANC.
Utilizing two microphones and Apple’s cutting-edge software algorithms, Active Noise Cancellation adjusts sound to the ear of each user.
The AirPods Pro have one microphone that faces outward and is intended to pick up external sound in order to assess background noise. A second internal microphone that listens to sound coming from the ear is present.
While the second microphone adjusts the noise cancellation by picking up any residual noise, the first microphone allows the AirPods Pro to block out external sound using anti-noise that filters out background noise before it hits the ear. The noise cancellation technology, according to Apple, continually modifies the acoustic input 200 times per second.
Mode of Transparency
Users who are concerned that Active Noise Cancellation would block out sound can utilise Apple’s Transparency mode option to listen to their surroundings.
Transparency mode uses the AirPods Pro’s vent system to reduce the Active Noise Cancellation so users may continue to listen to music, podcasts, and other content while hearing traffic, train announcements, and other sounds.
Direct activation of the Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes on the AirPods Pro is also possible, as is accessing the Control Center settings on an iPhone or iPad by tapping the volume slider in the Control Center.
By pushing and holding on the Force Sensor on the AirPods Pro stem, which alternates between Transparency mode and Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode may be activated.
Sound Performance
Apple claims that the built-in speaker technology and Adaptive EQ feature of the AirPods Pro provide better sound than the original AirPods. For what Apple describes as a deep, immersive listening experience, adaptive EQ adjusts the low- and mid-frequencies of the music that is playing to the shape of each person’s ear.
A unique high dynamic range amplifier and high excursion low distortion speaker driver are housed within the AirPods to deliver clean, clear sound and minimise background noise, respectively. Rich bass down to 20Hz is provided by the driver, in addition to clear mid- and high-frequency audio.
According to tests comparing the AirPods Pro to other wireless headphones on the market, including the original AirPods and the AirPods 2, the AirPods Pro have reduced Bluetooth latency compared to those other models.
Aural Space
Owners with AirPods Pro are now able to listen to tunes created specifically for spatial audio thanks to Apple’s June 2021 addition of the Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos feature to Apple Music.
In order to provide listeners an immersive, three-dimensional audio experience, spatial audio with Dolby Atmos was created. This technology enables musicians to create musical arrangements that make it seem as if the notes are coming from all directions.
For a more immersive listening experience, spatial audio utilises directional audio filters and slightly modifies the frequencies that each ear hears to position sounds nearly anywhere in space. The function tracks a user’s head motion and device location using sensors in the AirPods Pro and iPhone or iPad. It compares the motion data and remaps the sound field so that it remains anchored to the device even when the user’s head moves.
All AirPods and Beats headphones with an H1 or W1 chip, the built-in speakers of the most recent iPhones, iPads, and Macs, as well as the HomePod, automatically play Dolby Atmos tunes from Apple Music.
Regularly, studios release new Dolby Atmos music to Apple Music, and the company also provides a curated collection of Dolby Atmos playlists. Thousands of Spatial Audio tracks in a variety of genres were accessible at launch.
For a movie theater-like listening experience on the AirPods Pro, Spatial Audio also integrates with the Apple TV app and other third-party applications.
Lossless Apple Music Audio
A new lossless audio function has also been added to Apple Music, although it is incompatible with the AirPods Pro or any other Bluetooth-enabled headphones.
Internals of the H1 Chip
The Beats Solo Pro and second-generation AirPods both employ the same 10-core H1 processor, as do the AirPods Pro. According to Apple, the chip’s System in Package design is “meticulously designed,” with the positioning of each component taking into account the shape of the human ear for the best possible comfort, fit, and stability.
Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive EQ, and hands-free “Hey Siri” commands are all powered by the H1 processor.
Like the original AirPods, the AirPods Pro connect to your iPhone or other Apple device instantly, and due to the H1 chip and iCloud, you can quickly switch between your Apple devices. Without the need to enter Bluetooth settings, AirPods can transition between your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch as you use them.
Additionally, AirPods Pro support Audio Sharing, which enables several AirPods or Beats headphones to link to a single iOS device so that multiple users may access the same music, movie, and other content simultaneously.
The iPhone 8 and after, the iPad Air and later, the 5th generation iPad and later, the 5th generation iPad mini, all iPad Pro models, and the 7th generation iPod touch are the only devices that support audio sharing.
A motion-detecting accelerometer, a speech-detecting accelerometer, two optical sensors, the two microphones mentioned earlier (dual beamforming and one inward-facing), and a motion-detecting accelerometer all work together to power features like “Hey Siri” detection, pausing music when the AirPods are taken out of the ears, and more.
Bluetooth 5.0 technology is used by AirPods Pro to connect to Apple devices.
API for AirPods Pro Motion
With iOS 14, the AirPods Pro have access to orientation, user acceleration, and rotational speeds, which may be utilised in fitness apps, games, and other applications.
Force Detector
The AirPods Pro include a new Force Sensor on the stem that allows a variety of motions; see the choices list below.
- To stop or play music, press once.
- To answer an incoming call, press once. To go ahead on a track, press twice.
- Press the button three times to go back a track.
- To switch between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode, press and hold.
A battery’s life
Like the AirPods, the AirPods Pro have a five-hour battery life, but only when Active Noise Cancellation is turned off. The AirPods Pro provide four and a half hours of listening time and up to three and a half hours of speaking time in Active Noise Cancellation mode on a single charge.
Each AirPod has a 1.98Wh watch-style button cell battery, which is soldered to the cord and is not removable.
More than 24 hours of listening time and more than 18 hours of speaking time are provided by the Wireless Charging Case. After five minutes of charging, a quick charging function offers an hour of call time or an hour of listening time.
The inbuilt Lightning connector or a Qi-based wireless charging pad may both be used to charge the Wireless Charging Case. Apple includes a Lightning to USB-C connection for quick charging with the AirPods Pro.
With the addition of battery alerts in iOS 14, you can always keep your AirPods Pro charged and ready to go. Additionally, Apple has included Battery Health features for AirPods, which prolong battery life by reducing the length of time the AirPods Pro remain fully charged while charging.
Accommodations for headphones
Headphone Accommodations, a new accessibility feature included in iOS 14, may enhance quiet sounds and change certain frequencies to better suit a person’s hearing so that they can hear music, movies, phone calls, and podcasts using AirPods Pro.
The AirPods Pro’s Headphone Accommodations operate with Transparency mode to enhance the audibility of quiet speech and adjust environmental noises to the hearing demands of each user.
Increased conversation
Apple updated the firmware on the AirPods Pro to incorporate Conversation Boost. With the aid of Conversation Boost, persons with minor hearing impairments may participate more fully in discussions. The function increases the loudness of the person speaking in front of you using the AirPods Pro’s beam-forming microphones, making it simpler to listen to face-to-face conversations. There is also an option to lower background noise.
Find My
With iOS 15, my AirPods Pro may also be found via Apple’s Find My Network and can be followed in the Find My app.
By pinging nearby Apple devices, this integration enables the AirPods Pro to be found even when they are outside of Bluetooth range, allowing you to find a misplaced pair of AirPods considerably farther away.
Software specifications
Apple devices running iOS 13.2, iPadOS 13.2, watchOS 6.1, tvOS 13.2, or macOS Catalina 10.15.1 or later are required in order to use AirPods Pro.
AirPods Pro How Tos and Guides
- Top 14 Airpods Pro Tips and Tricks
- How to Control the Noise Cancellation Feature on AirPods Pro
- How to Customize the Force Sensor Gesture Functions on AirPods Pro
- How to Perform an Ear Tip Fit Test on AirPods Pro
- How to Control the Transparency Feature on AirPods Pro
- How to Use Audio Sharing on iPhone and iPad
- How to Buy Replacement AirPods Pro Ear Tips
- How to Enable Conversation Boost on AirPods Pro
- iOS 15: How to Get Notified If You Leave Your AirPods Pro Behind
- How to Find Your AirPods Pro Using the Find My Network in iOS 15
Authentic AirPods
Apple still offers its second- and third-generation AirPods for purchase. The cost of the second-generation AirPods is $129, while the third-generation AirPods cost $179.
Between AirPods and AirPods Pro
The AirPods Pro are more expensive, have a different design with silicone ear tips, and have active noise cancellation compared to the basic third-generation AirPods.
Powerbeats Pro compared. AirPods Pro
A comparative article that examines the differences between the AirPods Pro and the Powerbeats Pro is also available on our website.
While the Powerbeats Pro have a longer battery life and earhooks to help hold them in place during strenuous exercise, the AirPods Pro include Active Noise Cancellation and a thinner design.
What the AirPods Pro Will Do Next
A new wireless chip with higher performance, better audio quality, and some speculations predict heart rate and temperature sensors will be included in the second-generation AirPods Pro that Apple is developing, while other rumours claim that won’t be the case.
The next-generation AirPods Pro are expected to look like the original AirPods Pro and the AirPods 3. There were speculations that Apple was exploring a stemless design for the AirPods Pro 2, but more recent evidence suggests otherwise. It’s possible that the new AirPods Pro will support lossless audio, and they should come with improved Find My technology that enables them to play sounds.
According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Bloomberg, the second-generation AirPods will be on sale in 2022, and they will likely be released at the same time as new iPhone models.
As Apple is said to be preparing to release iPhone 15 models with a USB-C connection rather than a Lightning port in 2023 to meet with new rules being adopted in Europe, a future version of the AirPods Pro may use a USB-C connector instead of a Lightning connector. The second-generation AirPods Pro, which will be released in 2022, will still require a Lightning connector, although Apple may subsequently provide a stand-alone USB-C charging case.