AirPods Pro 2 Long-Term Review: Verdict & Buying Advice
If you’re thinking about buying the AirPods Pro 2, you’re not just picking out a new pair of earbuds. You’re making a decision about your daily audio, how you work, commute, exercise, and unwind. With so much praise and a high price tag, it’s normal to feel cautious. You want to know if the experience matches the promise and if this investment makes sense for your life. That’s the gap I hope to fill with this guide. I’ve used the AirPods Pro 2 as my primary earbuds, not for a week-long review, but for months of real life.
Let’s start by understanding what you’re really considering.
Apple AirPods Pro 2
Apple AirPods Pro 2 are Apple’s flagship wireless earbuds, designed to be the audio hub for someone living within its ecosystem. The key upgrade is the H2 chip, which powers better noise cancellation, smarter processing, and lower latency. They feature a new driver for improved sound, a redesigned case with a lanyard loop and speaker for Find My, and finally, a USB-C port.
But more than a list of features, they represent a philosophy: prioritizing seamless convenience and integrated design. They are engineered less to be the absolute best at any one audio metric and more to be the most effortless and connected audio device for an iPhone user.
Pros and Cons of Apple Airpod Pro 2
- Effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- High-Fidelity Sound with Personalization
- Effortless Device Switching
- Reliable Charging & Quick Top-Ups
- Water-Resistant for Daily Life
- Comfortable Fit & Seamless Apple Integration
- Apple Ecosystem Dependency Is Strong
- Limited Multi-Device Control Outside Apple
- No Built-In EQ Customization
The aim here is not to declare whether the AirPods Pro 2 are objectively good. That’s a simplistic question with little practical value. Instead, this guide is structured to answer the only question that matters to you: "Are they the right choice for my specific needs and situation?"
1. Analysis Based on Long-Term, Practical Use
The observations here are not derived from a week of testing or manufacturer specifications. They are based on using the AirPods Pro 2 as a primary audio device across multiple months and scenarios, during work calls, in various travel and commuting conditions, and for extended listening sessions. This provides a grounded view of performance, durability, and day-to-day usability that short-term reviews cannot.
2. Actionable Guidance, Not Feature Lists
We will move beyond simply listing what the earbuds can do. The focus will be on how to achieve their optimal performance. For instance, a critical factor like fit, which directly impacts noise cancellation and sound quality, will be addressed with a concrete, repeatable method for securing a proper seal, based on physical fit rather than a software prompt.
3. Contextual Recommendations for Different Users
A key part of a responsible review is recognizing that no single product is ideal for everyone. Therefore, this guide will include direct comparisons and alternatives. If your primary device is not an iPhone, or if your budget requires a different value proposition, we will identify other capable options that may suit more closely with your requirements. The goal is to equip you with the information to select the best tool for your particular circumstances.
How to Get the Perfect Fit with AirPods Pro 2
You know that feeling. You’ve just unboxed your new AirPods Pro, eager to experience that famous sound and silence. You pop them in, maybe try the different silicone tips, and start your day. But then, 20 minutes into your commute or workout, you feel it, a subtle loosening, a slight ache, that constant need to readjust them. You might even think, “Maybe my ears are just shaped wrong for these.”
Remember, a comfortable fit doesn’t always mean a larger tip. Many people with smaller ears find the most secure seal and greatest comfort with the smaller (S) or extra small (XS) tips, as they sit more naturally in the ear canal without over-expanding it. It’s crucial to test all included sizes methodically, the one you might overlook could be your “golden size” for all-day wear without pressure.
Our ear canals are as unique as our fingerprints. They aren’t perfect, smooth tubes; they have curves, ridges, and slight variations in size. The idea that three sizes of the same material can fit everyone perfectly is, quite frankly, a compromise. The seal, that gentle, airtight closure, is what creates the acoustic chamber needed for premium sound and ANC. When it’s broken by an improper fit, the experience fundamentally changes. It’s not that the product is failing; it’s that we haven’t yet matched its design to our unique anatomy.
The Right Way to Use the AirPods Pro 2 Ear Tip Fit Test
Apple’s Ear Tip Fit Test in Settings is a good start, but our ears don’t live in a still, quiet room. Real life involves movement, talking, and changes in temperature. Here’s how I found my secure fit, using a couple of simple, real-world checks.
The Bass Seal Check: Find a song you know well with a consistent, deep bassline. Play it at a moderate volume. Now, gently press the AirPod deeper into your ear canal with your finger. If you hear the bass suddenly become richer, fuller, and more pronounced, it means your current ear tip isn’t creating a full seal. This is your signal to try the next size up. You shouldn’t have to push to hear the full sound.
The Dynamic Movement : Once you think you have a good seal, don’t just sit still. Gently shake your head from side to side, and then up and down. Smile widely or pretend to chew. These mimic everyday motions. If the earbud feels like it’s shifting or losing its secure feeling, the fit isn’t quite locked in yet. A perfect fit should feel stable through these normal movements.
Choosing Your Material For the Best Fit: Silicone vs. Memory Foam
Apple provides silicone tips, which are fantastic for most. They’re durable, easy to clean, and provide a crisp seal. However, in our climate, sweat can make them slightly less grippy over long periods.
For some, especially those who’ve never found silicone comfortable, memory foam tips (from brands like Comply) can be a revelation. They are designed to compress when you insert them and then slowly expand to fill the unique contours of your ear canal. The feeling is less of a plug and more of a custom mold. They often provide a superior seal for noise isolation and can significantly improve comfort for long listening sessions. The trade-off is that foam is a consumable, it breaks down over months and needs replacing, but for many, the comfort gain is worth it. Think of it not as a defect, but as choosing the right tool for your body.
Building a Strategy for All-Day Comfort
Finding the right tip is the first victory. The next is maintaining comfort over hours, which is about managing pressure and hygiene. “Ear fatigue” usually comes from one of two things: constant pressure on a specific point, or skin irritation. Here’s how to address both:
- The Micro-Adjustment: During a long listening session, if you feel a slight ache, try this. Without taking the earbud out, gently rotate the stem forward or backward by a millimeter or two. This tiny shift can move the pressure point to a different area of your ear, providing relief.
- Hygiene is Longevity: Over time, natural oils and earwax can build up on silicone tips, making them slightly slick and affecting the seal. A simple, weekly wipe with a dry, soft, lint-free cloth is all that’s needed. If necessary, you can slightly dampen the cloth with water. I’ve learned to avoid alcohol wipes or harsh chemicals, as they can dry out and degrade the silicone over time, making it less flexible and ruining that perfect seal you worked so hard to achieve.
AirPods Pro 2 ANC & Transparency Mode
When I first turned on the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), I was expecting near-total silence. The marketing promises a quiet bubble, and that’s what I was listening for. But I could still hear my ceiling fan, and when a motorbike passed outside, its sound was muted but not gone. My first thought was, “Is this working correctly?”
If you’ve had a similar moment of doubt, I understand. It took me some time and testing to separate the expectations from the reality of how this technology works. Let me share what I’ve learned about getting the most out of these modes and troubleshooting them when they don’t feel right.
Understanding What ANC Can and Cannot Do
This is the most important thing to know: ANC is brilliant at handling constant, low-frequency droning sounds. It creates an opposite sound wave to cancel them out. This includes:
- The deep hum of an airplane or bus engine.
- The steady roar of an air conditioner or fan.
- The consistent background rumble of traffic on a main road.
However, ANC is less effective on sudden, irregular, or high-pitched sounds. This isn’t a flaw in your unit; it’s a characteristic of the technology. These include:
Sharp sounds like a rickshaw horn, a door slamming, or dishes clattering. Human speech or a dog barking. Think of it like this: ANC is excellent at lowering the “volume” of your environment, but it’s not a magic mute button. It turns the chaotic noise of a Lahore street into a distant, manageable murmur rather than erasing it completely.
AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancellation Not Working? How to Fix Weak ANC
Step 1: Revisit Your Fit
This is always the first place to check. If the ear tip isn’t sealing your ear canal properly, outside noise will leak in, making ANC seem weak. Go back to the fit tips from the previous section. A perfect seal is the non-negotiable foundation for ANC to work as designed.
Step 2: Check a Hidden Software Setting
There’s a helpful iPhone feature that can accidentally weaken ANC. Go to:
Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual > Headphone Accommodations.
If this is turned On, it might be set to “Balance Sounds” or “Tone Balance,” which can drastically reduce noise cancellation power to make all sounds seem even. Try turning this setting Off completely as a test. You might be surprised at the immediate difference.
Step 3: The Full Reset (For Persistent Glitches)
Sometimes, the software on the AirPods themselves gets confused. A full reset clears this out.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone.
- Tap the (i) icon next to your AirPods Pro.
- Select “Forget This Device” and confirm.
With the AirPods case lid open, press and hold the button on the back for about 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber and then white. Close the lid, wait a moment, then reopen it near your iPhone to reconnect. This process feels a bit technical, but it’s the most reliable way to fix odd behaviors and is my go-to solution when things feel “off.”
Step 4: Ensure Everything is Updated
Finally, make sure both your iPhone’s iOS and your AirPods’ firmware are up to date. Updates often include performance improvements for ANC. You can check your AirPods firmware version in Settings > Bluetooth > [Your AirPods] > Version.
Why AirPods Pro 2 Transparency Mode Sounds Muffled or Weird
Transparency Mode is meant to let you hear your surroundings naturally while wearing the earbuds. But sometimes, it can sound muffled or strangely artificial. Here’s how to understand it:
- Standard Transparency: This is the basic mode. It uses the microphones to pipe in outside sound. It should sound clear and natural, not tinny or hollow.
- Conversation Boost (A Useful Sub-Mode): This focuses the microphones on the person speaking in front of you. It’s incredibly useful in a noisy market or café when you need to talk to someone without taking your earbuds out. You can enable it from the Control Center when Transparency is on.
- Adaptive Transparency: This is active all the time in the background. It instantly lowers the volume of very loud, harsh environmental noises (like a sudden construction drill or ambulance siren) to protect your hearing, while keeping other sounds clear.
- If Transparency Sounds “Wrong”:
If Transparency sounds muddy, like ANC is still on, or just doesn’t sound right, it’s usually a software glitch. The Full Reset process described in Step 3 above is almost always the fix. After resetting and re-pairing, Transparency should return to its clear, natural state.
How to Improve AirPods Pro 2 Sound Quality
Have you ever felt that, despite all the hype, the sound from your AirPods Pro 2 is just… fine? It’s clear, but it doesn’t have that “wow” factor you were expecting. The much talked about Spatial Audio might even feel like a bit of a gimmick, something that moves sound around but doesn’t truly improve it.
I felt the same way at first. The sound was good, but it wasn’t the immersive, rich experience I’d hoped for. After some digging, I realized the issue wasn’t the speakers in the AirPods, but a missed connection between their technology and my own ears. The key was a one-time setup I had almost skipped.
AirPods Pro 2 Sound Flat? Fix It in 2 Minutes
When you first set up your AirPods, your iPhone likely showed a quick prompt to set up Personalized Spatial Audio. In a hurry to start listening, it’s very easy to tap “Skip” or “Not Now.” I almost did.
That prompt is more important than it seems. It’s not just another permission request. It asks to use your iPhone’s Face ID camera to scan the unique shape of your ears. Why? Because sound waves travel and bounce differently inside every person’s ear canal. By creating a custom acoustic profile for you, the AirPods can tailor the audio, especially the Spatial Audio effect, to match your personal anatomy. Without this, they use a generic, one-size-fits-all sound profile that will never feel perfectly tuned to you.
If you skipped it, here’s how to do it now (it takes 60 seconds):
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap your name at the top, then select your AirPods.
- Tap “Personalized Spatial Audio.”
- Follow the instructions to scan your left and right ear. You’ll need to turn your head slightly, just like setting up Face ID.
You only do this once. Afterward, this profile syncs automatically to your iPad and Mac. When I finally did this, the difference wasn’t earth-shattering, but it was distinctly noticeable, the sound gained a clearer sense of space and depth. Instruments felt more precisely placed. It was the missing piece that moved the sound from coming from the earbuds to happening around me.
How to Set Up Personalized Spatial Audio for Better Sound
Once you have your personalized profile set up, Spatial Audio makes more sense. It’s not one thing, but a tool with different settings for different moments. You change them by holding your finger on the volume slider in your Control Center.
- For everyday music (like Spotify or local files): Try the “Fixed” setting. This doesn’t track your head. Instead, it takes your regular music and creates a wider, more concert-hall-like soundstage. The musicians feel like they’re playing in front of you, not squeezed inside your head. This is where I keep it 90% of the time.
- For movies and TV shows (on Netflix, Apple TV+): Switch to “Head Tracked.” This is the cinematic effect. The sound feels like it’s coming from your screen, and if you turn your head, the audio stays locked to the device. It’s impressive for film but usually overkill for music.
When you just want simplicity: Choose “Off.” This is pure, high-quality stereo, left and right channel, direct and unprocessed. It’s perfect when you want no extra effects.
How to Change AirPods Pro 2 Sound with iPhone's Hidden EQ
Sometimes, you might just want a bit more bass or clearer vocals. There’s no built-in equalizer in the AirPods settings, but there is a powerful one hidden in your iPhone that affects everything you listen to.
Go to Settings > Music > EQ. Don’t be overwhelmed by the list. I’ve found two presets particularly useful:
Late Night: This is my go-to. It doesn’t just boost bass. It makes quiet sounds louder and loud sounds softer, so you can hear all the details clearly even at low volumes. It’s excellent for podcasts or listening in bed.
Bass Booster: Exactly what it says. It gives a satisfying thump to genres like hip-hop or electronic music.
Think of this as a final, simple tweak to make the sound signature match your mood or your music.
Understanding the AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Features
Apple has introduced features that allow the AirPods Pro 2 to amplify sounds and enhance conversation clarity. They are engineered for specific, everyday situations:
Making a conversation clearer in a noisy restaurant or café.
Helping you hear the TV at a lower volume.
Giving you an edge to hear an announcement in a bustling terminal.
For these common scenarios involving mild, situational listening difficulty, they work very well as a sophisticated personal amplifier.
However, it is crucial to understand: This is not a medical hearing aid. It is a well-engineered personal audio amplifier. It is not programmed by an audiologist for a specific type of hearing loss. If you have significant or persistent difficulty hearing, these are a helpful tool, but consulting a hearing professional is the essential and responsible step.
Understanding the AirPods Pro 2 Whistling Sound Issue: Cause & Fix
I remember the first time it happened. I was adjusting my left AirPod during a podcast, and a sharp, high-pitched whistle shot through my ear. This isn’t an isolated issue also its highly frustrating complaint from some AirPods Pro 2 users is an unexpected high-pitched whistling or static noise. This most often happens when physically touching or adjusting the earbuds in the ear. If you’ve experienced this, your immediate thought is correct: “For a premium product, this shouldn’t happen.”
This isn’t a minor quirk for those who hear it; it’s a disruptive flaw that breaks immersion. Let’s break down the likely cause and the most effective, practical steps to resolve it.
What Causes the Whistling Sound?
Based on widespread user reports and technical analysis, this noise is almost always related to the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency mode microphones.
Here’s the simple explanation:
The AirPods Pro 2 use outward-facing microphones to listen to environmental noise.
When you touch or adjust the earbud, your finger can partially cover or rub against these microphone ports.
This physical interference disrupts the audio signal the microphones are picking up. The H2 chip, working in real-time to process this signal for ANC or Transparency, can interpret this disruption as a form of audio feedback or wind noise, resulting in a brief high-frequency whistle or static burst.
In essence, you’re hearing the ANC system momentarily confused by an unnatural, abrupt change in its input signal.
Proven Steps to Fix or Mitigate the Whistling
This is not typically a hardware defect you must live with. Follow these troubleshooting steps in order.
Step 1: The Essential First Fix, Clean the Microphone Grilles
This is the most common and effective solution. Earwax, dust, or lint blocking the tiny external microphone ports can cause the system to malfunction.
How to do it safely: Use a dry, soft-bristled brush (a clean, unused makeup brush or soft toothbrush is perfect). Gently brush all the black grilles on the stem and outer body of each AirPod. Follow this by wiping with a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth. Never use liquid, compressed air, or sharp objects, as this can push debris further in or damage the water seals.
Step 2: Check and Re-Seat Your Ear Tips
A poor seal can cause audio pressure issues that exacerbate feedback.
Remove the silicone ear tips from both AirPods.
Ensure the connection points on the AirPods themselves are clean and dry.
Firmly press the ear tips back on until they click securely into place. An improper fit here can affect the acoustic system.
Step 3: Disable and Re-Enable ANC/Transparency
Sometimes, the audio processing software needs a reset.
With your AirPods connected, go to Settings > Bluetooth > (i) next to your AirPods.
Under Press and Hold AirPods, temporarily set both ears to Off (this disables ANC & Transparency).
Use them for a few minutes. Then, change the setting back to Noise Cancellation or Transparency.
Test if the whistling persists when touching them.
Step 4: Perform a Full Factory Reset
If software is the culprit, this will clear it. Go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the (i) next to your AirPods, and select Forget This Device. Then, with the case lid open, press and hold the case button for 15 seconds until the light flashes amber, then white. Re-pair them as new.
AirPods Pro 2 Battery Life: Real Usage & Longevity Tips
When I first got my AirPods Pro 2, I was also watching the battery percentage closely, wondering if the 6-hour claim was real. More than that, I had a bigger, quieter worry in the back of my mind: These are a significant investment. Will the battery hold up in a year, or will I be looking at a much shorter product life?
Think About the Case’s Charge: Try not to leave the charging case plugged in constantly, especially overnight. Treat it like your phone, unplug it once it’s full.
Be Mindful of Heat: This is critical. Never leave your AirPods case in direct sunlight, like on a car dashboard. Avoid placing it right next to a laptop that’s getting hot. A cool environment is a battery’s best friend.
The 40-80% “Sweet Spot” (When Practical): If you can, try not to let the case battery drain to 0% regularly. Similarly, you don’t always need to charge it to 100%. Keeping it between 40% and 80% for daily top-ups is ideal for long-term health, though for travel, a full charge is perfectly fine.
The official “up to 6 hours with ANC” is a best-case scenario number, measured under specific lab conditions. Real life is messier. Based on my consistent use, here’s a more practical breakdown that might match your experience:
- For Podcasts & Audiobooks (ANC on, ~60% volume): This is where they shine longest. You can expect a solid 5 to 5.5 hours. The consistent audio stream and moderate volume are easy on the battery.
- For Music Streaming (ANC on, ~70-80% volume): With more complex audio processing and higher volume, the time drops. I consistently get between 4 to 4.5 hours of continuous playback.
- For Mixed Use with Calls (ANC on): This is the most realistic daily pattern. An hour of music, a few calls, some podcasts. In this scenario, you’ll likely need to put them back in the case after 3.5 to 4 hours of total ear time. If you’re noticing shorter battery life than expected, check out real fixes for AirPods battery draining fast.
The case itself reliably provides about four full recharges. This means from a full case, you get a total of 20-24 hours of listening, which, for most people, covers a few days without needing a USB-C cable.
Understanding Battery Health
The battery inside your AirPods is lithium-ion, the same technology in your phone. It’s helpful to think of it not as a simple bucket that gets filled and emptied, but as a component that experiences gentle wear every time it cycles.
Two things accelerate this wear the most: constantly staying at 100% charge and heat. When a lithium-ion battery sits at maximum capacity for extended periods (like on a charger all night), it experiences subtle stress. Heat, like leaving the case in a sunny car or near a laptop vent, accelerates chemical aging.
This is where a quiet but crucial feature comes in: Optimized Battery Charging. You’ll find it in your AirPods settings on the iPhone. When enabled, your iPhone learns your daily routine. It will charge the AirPods case to about 80% and then wait to finish charging to 100% just before you typically take them out. It’s a small, intelligent habit that significantly reduces long-term wear. I highly recommend keeping this on.
Can the Case Charge Your Phone? A Practical Look
Technically, yes, it is possible. If you connect your iPhone to the case with a USB-C to Lightning (or USB-C) cable, it will provide a very small amount of charge. Practically, it’s not a viable solution. The case battery is very small (about 500mAh). An iPhone battery is over five times larger. You might get 5-8% of iPhone charge before the case is completely depleted, leaving your AirPods dead. It’s truly only for an absolute emergency where you need to make one critical call. For any real charging need, a proper power bank is the right tool.
Can You Use AirPods Pro 2 with Android or Windows?
If your primary devices are an Android phone or a Windows PC, understanding this gap is crucial before investing. The seamless switching, automatic pairing, and key software features are designed for Apple’s ecosystem. Outside of it, you’re left with a competent but fundamentally limited pair of wireless earbuds.
Mapping Your Connectivity Reality
- Within the Apple Ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Mac): This is where the full, automated experience across all devices is designed to work. Your AirPods are treated as a shared accessory across all devices signed into your iCloud account. Switching audio is automatic or requires just a single click in the audio menu. It truly is seamless.
- With Non-Apple Devices (Windows PC, Android Phone, Smart TV): Here, the AirPods behave like a standard, high-quality Bluetooth device. The deep integration is gone. You connect manually through the device’s Bluetooth settings each time you want to switch. It’s reliable, but it’s a manual process.
AirPods Pro 2 with Android & Windows: Features That Work vs. Features Lost
If you use your AirPods with a Windows laptop or an Android phone, it’s helpful to know exactly what to expect. This isn’t about good or bad, but about setting the right expectations so you’re not left looking for a feature that isn’t there.
Here’s what works perfectly well:
- High-Quality Audio Playback: You’ll get great sound for music, videos, and calls.
- Basic Controls: The press-and-hold function on the stem to toggle between Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode still works. Volume swipes on the stem also work.
- Microphone: You can use them for voice and video calls.
Here’s what you won’t have access to:
- Automatic Device Switching: You must manually disconnect from one device and connect to the other via Bluetooth settings.
- On-Screen Battery Pop-ups: You won’t see the elegant battery-level animation.
- Spatial Audio Personalization: The customized head-tracking spatial audio requires the Apple setup.
- Find My Integration: You can’t locate a lost earbud or case using Apple’s Find My network.
- In-Ear Detection: Music may not automatically pause when you remove one earbud.
- “Hey Siri” Voice Commands: The hands-free Siri activation is Apple-device only.
AirPods Pro 2 Won’t Connect? Troubleshooting Guide
Even within the Apple ecosystem, you might occasionally hit a snag, the AirPods won’t connect, troubleshooting one-side AirPod problems, or they seem “stuck” to another device. Don’t worry; this is usually a software hiccup. Here is the step-by-step troubleshooting sequence I follow, which almost always works:
- Forget and Re-Pair (The First Reset): On your primary iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the (i) next to your AirPods, and select “Forget This Device.” Confirm. Then, with the AirPods case lid open, hold them near your iPhone to go through the pairing setup again. This clears the basic connection memory.
- The Hard Reset (For Stubborn Issues): If problems persist, you need to reset the AirPods themselves. With the AirPods in the case and the lid open, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for 15 seconds. Watch for the status light: it will flash amber a few times, then flash white. Release the button. This returns them to factory settings. You’ll then need to re-pair them to all your devices from scratch.
- Update Everything: Ensure your iPhone’s iOS is up to date in Settings > General > Software Update. AirPods firmware updates are delivered automatically and silently when they are connected to your iPhone, near it, and in their case. Leaving them like this for 30 minutes with your iPhone on Wi-Fi is the best way to trigger an update.
- Check for Interference: If you’re having dropouts in a specific location (like a busy office or café), it could be Wi-Fi or other Bluetooth interference. Try moving to a different area or turning off Bluetooth on a nearby device you’re not using.
How to Update AirPods Pro 2 Firmware
Unlike your phone, you don’t manually update your AirPods. The updates happen in the background. The process is simple but requires specific conditions: your AirPods must be in their case, the case must be charging (or have charge), and the case must be near your paired iPhone, which is connected to Wi-Fi.
If you’re curious about your current version, you can check by going to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone, tapping the (i) next to your AirPods, and looking at the “Version” number. If you’re experiencing a widely reported bug, sometimes the only fix is to ensure you’ve received the latest update by creating these ideal conditions.
How to Customize AirPods Pro 2 Controls and Notifications
Most of us start with the simple controls, a tap to play or pause, maybe a double-tap to skip a track. It works, and for a while, that feels like enough. But then you see someone effortlessly adjust their volume with a swipe on the stem, or have their messages read aloud to them without touching their phone. You realize your AirPods can do more; you just don’t know how to access it all. The features are there, but they’re tucked away in menus, waiting to be discovered.
The press-and-hold gesture on the stems is powerful, but by default, it often just toggles between Noise Cancellation and Transparency. You can change this. What if holding the left ear could activate Siri for a quick command, while holding the right ear toggles your listening modes? You can set that up.
Here’s how to personalize it:
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- Tap the (i) icon next to your AirPods Pro.
- Scroll down to “Press and Hold AirPods”.
- Here, you can set the action for the Left and Right ear independently. Your options are usually Noise Control (cycle through ANC/Transparency/Off) or Siri.
This small change lets you build a control scheme that matches how you think. For example, I have my left ear set to summon Siri for quick timers or messages, and my right ear toggles noise control. It puts the most frequent actions right at your fingertips without ever needing your phone.
Using Siri as Your Hands-Free Assistant
“Hey Siri” can feel like a party trick, but when used intentionally, it becomes a real productivity tool, especially when your hands are busy, cooking, driving, or working out.
Beyond asking for a song, here are two features that changed how I use my AirPods:
Announce Notifications: This is a game-changer for staying connected without distraction. You can have Siri automatically read out messages from specific people or apps as they arrive. To set it up:
Go to Settings > Siri & Search > Announce Notifications, and turn it on for your AirPods. You can then select which messaging apps (like WhatsApp or iMessage) you want announced. When a message comes in, Siri will read the sender’s name and the message through your AirPods, and you can even dictate a reply instantly. It keeps you in the flow without constantly checking your phone.
Voice-Controlled Volume: Instead of fumbling for the stem swipe, you can simply say, “Hey Siri, lower the volume” or “Hey Siri, set volume to 50%.” It’s surprisingly precise and feels incredibly futuristic when your hands are wet, dirty, or full.
Live Listen: A Powerful Feature Beyond Its Name
Tucked away in the Accessibility settings is a feature called Live Listen. Its primary purpose is to help people hear conversations better by using the iPhone’s microphone as a directional mic, streaming the sound directly to their AirPods.
But its utility is broader. I’ve found it practical in a few other scenarios:
- Listening to a distant speaker: In a quiet meeting or lecture hall where you’re sitting far back, placing your phone on the table near the speaker can make their voice much clearer in your ears.
- Keeping a gentle ear on another room: If you need to briefly step away while your child is napping, you can place your phone in their room (in a safe spot) and use Live Listen to hear if they stir, all while having both hands free elsewhere.
To enable it, add the Hearing control to your Control Center (Settings > Control Center), then tap the ear icon when your AirPods are connected.
How to Find Lost AirPods Pro 2 (Case or Single Earbud)
We’ve all had that moment of panic when an earbud slips out and vanishes. The Find My app is your best friend here, but it’s important to know its strengths and limits.
- For the Charging Case: The case has a U1 ultra-wideband chip. If you lose it somewhere in your home, the Find My app can give you Precision Finding, it shows an arrow and distance on your screen, leading you right to it under a couch cushion or in a bag. This is highly effective.
- For a Single Lost Earbud: A lone bud does not have the U1 chip. The Find My network will show you its last known location when it was connected to your phone. If it’s out of the case and has battery, you can play a sound, but this sound is fairly quiet and meant for finding it in the next room under a pillow, not in a park. The “Notify When Left Behind” feature is useful here, it can alert you if you walk away from a bud or the case.
The real key is using the Find My app proactively. Make sure it’s set up, and know that while the case is easy to find precisely, a single bud requires quicker action and relies on its last connected location.
I think there are some general guidelines that can help you make your decision.
1. You want the complete Apple audio experience with top-tier noise cancellation, great sound, and seamless iPhone integration, and you're coming from older basic earbuds or this is your first premium pair.
2. You already own the first AirPods Pro, but their battery is fading fast, or you really want the practical upgrades like volume controls on the stem and a much easier-to-find charging case with the Find My speaker.
3. Your current first-gen AirPods Pro still work well all day, or you already own the AirPods Pro 2 with a Lightning port. The new USB-C version only makes sense if you own an Apple Vision Pro.
The decision is less about the latest model and more about whether your current earbuds have a real problem that these solve. If they don't, you can confidently stick with what you have.
AirPods Pro 2 vs. Alternatives: Who Should Buy Them?
If your life doesn’t match that profile, paying the AirPods Pro premium might not give you the value you deserve. In that case, a different tool could be a much better fit. Here are some clear, fair alternatives based on common needs:
- If Your Primary Phone is Android: Buying AirPods Pro means missing over half their best features. You’ll get good sound, but none of the smart integration.
- Consider Instead: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or Google Pixel Buds Pro. These are designed from the ground up for Android, offering seamless pairing, codec support for better sound, and deep integration with their respective ecosystems at a similar or lower price.
- If Your Budget is a Primary Concern: The AirPods Pro 2 are a significant investment.
- Consider Instead: Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC. You’ll get remarkably good active noise cancellation and sound quality for a fraction of the price. You lose the Apple ecosystem magic, but you gain tremendous value for money.
- If You Need Maximum Security for Sports or Durability: The AirPods Pro fit can be secure, but they lack physical hooks for intense activity.
Consider Instead: Beats Fit Pro (which use the same Apple H1 chip for iPhone integration but have wingtips) or models from Jabra like the Elite 8 Active, which are built to be rugged, secure, and sweatproof.
Frequently Asked Questions
AirPods Pro 2 are the most complete and reliable wireless earbuds you can buy. They deliver excellent noise cancellation, great sound after quick personalization, and seamless connectivity that makes them an effortless part of your daily routine.
A few consistent points of friction:
Fit is personal, Discomfort often means you haven't found the right ear tip size yet, this step is essential. Minor software glitches happen. Occasional dropouts or a startling whistle when adjusting them are usually fixed with a quick reset or cleaning the microphone grilles. They work best for the user who is willing to spend a few minutes on setup and knows the simple fixes for common quirks.
Yes, the AirPods Pro 2 deliver excellent sound, but they require a quick, one-time setup to reach their full potential. To fix this, take one minute to do this: open your iPhone's Settings, tap on your AirPods, and select Personalized Spatial Audio. Your phone will scan your ears. It feels a bit futuristic, but it customize the sound specifically for the shape of your ears. Once you've done that, the difference is clear. Music gains more space and detail, it feels like it's happening around you, not just inside your head.
You can expect the AirPods Pro 2 to remain fully functional for 3 to 4 years with daily use, though with some expected changes:
Battery Life: This is the primary limiting factor. After 2-3 years of full daily cycles, you will notice reduced playtime per charge (e.g., from 6 hours down to 4-4.5 hours with ANC). The case battery will also degrade.
Build Quality: The hardware itself is robust. The main wear items are the silicone ear tips, which may need replacing yearly, and the charging case, which may show cosmetic scratches.
Software Support: Apple typically provides new features and updates for 5+ years, so they won't become obsolete quickly.
Use Optimized Battery Charging, avoid extreme heat, clean them regularly, and expect to potentially use the case for mid-day top-ups in later years. They are built as a long-term product, but like all small electronics with non-replaceable batteries, their usable life has a limit.
They can, but they shouldn't if fitted correctly. This is the most critical factor for sports. Their stability relies entirely on the seal created by the silicone ear tips.
If you have the correct tip size and have secured a proper seal (use the Ear Tip Fit Test), they should stay in securely during most running, gym workouts, and head movements.
If you have naturally slippery ear canals or do high-intensity training, they may gradually loosen with sweat. For maximum security, many athletes opt for third-party memory foam tips or earbuds with physical ear hooks (like Beats Fit Pro).
If budget is flexible and you want the best performance, fit customization, and features, the AirPods Pro 2 are the superior choice. If you want very good ANC and solid sound for less money, the AirPods 4 (with ANC) are a compelling alternative. The standard AirPods 4 (without ANC) are for those who don't need noise cancellation at all.
AirPods Pro 2 are better for: The absolute best noise cancellation and audio fidelity, a customizable sealed fit, and all premium features (Personalized Spatial Audio, Adaptive Transparency, Conversation Boost, Hearing Aid mode). They remain Apple's top-tier audio product.
AirPods 4 (with ANC) are better for: Those who want good noise cancellation at a lower price point, prefer a design that doesn't go as deep into the ear canal, or don't need the very highest sound quality. They are an excellent value-oriented Pro-like option.
The AirPods (3rd generation) are more comfortable for all-day wear. Their open, lightweight design feels like an upgrade from the classic EarPods and doesn't give you that plugged up feeling
Choose the AirPods Pro 2 if your top need is quiet.
They're for you if you commute, work in a noisy place, or just want to focus. They seal your ear canal with silicone tips (which is necessary for the noise cancellation to work), block out the world incredibly well, and offer the absolute best sound and features Apple has.
Choose the AirPods (3rd generation) if your top need is comfort.
They're for you if you dislike the plugged-up feeling of silicone tips, use earbuds mostly in quiet or safe environments (like at home), and want a more relaxed, open fit that lets in some outside sound naturally.
