iOS 16.1 won’t bring Adaptive Transparency to older AirPods Pro and AirPods Max [U: bug fixed]

On the latest iOS 16.1 beta 3, users noticed the Adaptive Transparency mode option for their original AirPods Pro and AirPods Max which is available on AirPods Pro (second generation). The expansion of the improved audio feature got the owners of older AirPods models very excited that they will be able to block out noises in loud environments.

However, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg tweeted that the Adaptive Transparency mode option appearing for original AirPods Pro and AirPods Max is caused by a bug on iOS 16.1 beta 3.

[Update: The new iOS 16.1 beta 4 update has fixed the bug that showed the Adaptive Transparency option for older AirPods Pro and AirPods Max with H1 chip, confirming that it was indeed a bug and not a functional element.]

iOS 16.1

As Adaptive Transparency mode is powered by H2 chip, it will not be available on AirPods with H1 chip on iOS 16.1

The new AirPods Pro 2 feature the new powerful H2 chip which offers enhanced sound quality with 2x better Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Transparency, and Personalized Spatial Audio for an immersive listening experience.

iOS 16.1

Furthermore, the new H2 chip is equipped with a low-distortion audio driver and custom amplifier to deliver richer bass and crystal-clear sound across a wider range of frequencies, and for comfortable listening on Adaptive Transparency, it enables on-device processing to reduce loud environmental noise like construction tools, loudspeakers at a concert, a passing vehicle siren and others.

iOS 16.1

Therefore, it was a surprise when beta users discovered the option to Adaptive the Transparency mode in the Settings app for AirPods with an H1 chip. Several owners of the original AirPods Pro also commented that they no longer have a reason to upgrade to second-generation AirPods Pro.

Gurman’s source is likely to be accurate about the feature’s appearance being caused by a bug because it is not a functional element for users. He also added that “it’s not meant to work”.

Previously, Apple also confirmed that AirPods Pro 2 new XS ear tips are not compatible with older AirPods Pro.

Read More:

About the Author

Addicted to social media and in love with iPhone, started blogging as a hobby. And now it's my passion for every day is a new learning experience. Hopefully, manufacturers will continue to use innovative solutions and we will keep on letting you know about them.

Leave a comment