Here's how to disable each 'smart' feature of the AirPods Pro 2:

I like my AirPods Pro 2, but I can't say the same thing about every "smart" feature that Apple has added over the years. If you want to use your AirPods Pro as simply as possible, here are the features to disable.

Fun fact: you can read this backwards to ensure you use each intelligent feature of your AirPods Pro 2.

How I Use My AirPods Pro 2

Personally, I prefer running my AirPods Pro as if it was in 2019. Apple has gradually made the AirPods Pro more intelligent over the years, but not all new features are for me, even though they are impressive.

I like that my AirPods pause when I take them off, switch between noise cancellation and transparency mode, and respond to voice commands when I say "Siri". That's it.

I have an accessibility feature that I usually use. By default, the AirPods Pro do not offer noise reduction when you use a single AirPod. I like enabling this capability.

While using your AirPods, go to Settings > [Your AirPods] > Accessibility > enable Noise Reduction with a Single AirPod.

This is useful when I want noise cancellation, but I am using a single AirPod as if I'm sleeping in bed. An AirPod in the ear facing the blanket can sometimes be uncomfortable.

Intelligent Features You Can Disable

Some or all of these elements could be what you're looking for... continue at your own risk.

• Settings > Sounds and Haptics > Headphone Security > Disable High Volume Reduction

Going down the list of settings > [Your AirPods] from top to bottom... starting by disabling Adaptive mode.

• Press and hold the earbuds: Left > Noise Control > check Transparency and Noise Cancellation; uncheck Adaptive
• Press and hold the wireless earbuds: Right > Noise Control > check Transparency and Noise Cancellation; uncheck Adaptive

Then there are two audio features that I am happier to avoid:

• Sounds: switch Custom Audio off
• AUDIO: switch Conversation Awareness on and off

I do not use the Spatially Personalized Audio (or Spacial Audio in its entirety).

Then there are some new features:

• Head Gestures > Off
• Activate Recharge Case Sounds > switch to off

Now that I am well settled as an old grumpy man who prefers things the old way (territory), I turn off optimized battery charging. However, I leave Find My Network on.

Finally, there is the recent change of the default option to disable Listen While Muted mode. I indeed leave this mode disabled despite the fact that the old method does the opposite. This is because it's a feature that I manually disabled. I am either in Noise Cancellation mode or Transparency mode. I think that Listen While Muted mode is useful only if you're trying to maximize battery life, but the battery life of AirPods Pro is something I don't worry about myself.

What is your preference for running the AirPods Pro 2? Share your preferences in the comments!

Best Accessories for AirPods Pro

• OakXCO Belt [available in various colors]
• Masters Ultra-Reserve Memory Earmuffs with Resin Fibers
• KeyBudz Air Care 2.0 Cleaning Kit for AirPods
• Wireless Universal Magnetic Charger 15W