Apple has pulled the noise cancellation controls for AirPods Pro from the Control Center, nudging users toward Transparency mode by default. A tech portal reports the change via 9to5Mac. For listeners in the United States and Canada, this shift alters how quickly people switch between listening modes on devices running iOS 18 and later. The move makes quick access to a true Off setting less convenient, since the control to mute everything without removing the headphones used to live in the Control Center. That adjustment can disrupt daily habits for anyone who relied on leaving ANC off when ambient noise was tolerable or when a window was open, whether commuting, working remotely, or exercising. Previously, four listening options were available, including Off, and the absence of that option has left some users navigating to Settings to recreate a familiar setup. The change highlights how software tweaks ripple through everyday listening and how people adapt to new controls in the AirPods Pro ecosystem.
Originally there were four listening modes: Off, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency, and Adaptive. iOS 18 trimmed the lineup to three by removing the Off option from the Control Center. This led to disappointment among many who want a quick way to silence everything without touching the AirPods. A workaround exists, according to 9to5Mac: open Settings, tap AirPods, and at the bottom choose Listening Mode: Off. When this change is applied, the Off option reappears in the Control Center, restoring the familiar quick switch. The adjustment serves as a reminder that software updates can reshape daily use, even when the hardware remains the same.
AirPods Pro 2 owners who updated to iOS 18.1 and later encountered another snag: the headphones can automatically switch to Transparency mode because of the built‑in hearing protection feature when worn. To turn this off, open Settings, pick Accessibility, and then select Turn off loud sounds. This setting is designed to guard against sudden loud exposures, but it can override user preference in certain environments. The situation has been noted by multiple outlets, including reports from 9to5Mac.
These changes illustrate how Apple updates can affect everyday use for AirPods Pro in North America. The adjustments influence how people manage audio during commutes, workouts, and calls, especially for those who rely on quick mode switching. If fast toggling matters, users can monitor future iOS releases, revisit Settings to restore Off, and tailor the three remaining modes to their surroundings. In practice, leaving Transparency off in noisy environments while enabling it for safety when needed can help preserve a balanced listening experience. The guidance offered here provides practical options for both preferences, keeping the interface flexible without sacrificing control.
Previously reported that the cost of iPhone 16 Pro dropped to around 100,000 rubles in Russia. This detail, while not directly tied to AirPods, reflects the broader context of global pricing dynamics for Apple devices and how market shifts can influence consumer decisions in the North American region as well. The note comes from sources like 9to5Mac.