You Could Switch Off Noise Cancellation In Future AirPods With A Code Word
A new patent application from Apple reveals that future AirPods could let users switch off Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with just a code word. AirPods Pro and AirPods Max come with Active Noise Cancellation to help users filter out ambient noise for a disruption-free audio experience. However, ANC blocks out pretty much all sounds indiscriminately, which means users sometimes miss out on important messages from their friends and family, something the company is trying to address with its new patent.
It is worth noting that both AirPods Pro and AirPods Max let users manually turn ANC off, but that then lets in all types of noise and can negatively impact on the audio experience. The devices also come with a 'Transparency mode' that allows some outside sound in, so users can hear what's going on around them. However, it still doesn't offer the on-demand ANC toggle that Apple's proposed new feature might bring.
Related: How To Turn Off AirPods
Apple's new patent describes the option to use designated code words to switch off noise cancellation on AirPods. Called «Interrupt for noise-cancelling audio devices,» the new feature would ensure that users get to enjoy the benefits of noise cancellation without worrying that they will miss out on an important message from their family or friends. As part of the plan, the patent proposes that the noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds will scan externally-generated sounds to detect whether somebody is speaking the code-word.
The solution would likely work similarly to current voice assistants, whereby headphones and earbuds can be controlled with voice commands. Per the patent document, the technology will also apparently ensure that only «predesignated contacts» are able to
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