Overview
- Users describe a persistent hiss or static with noise-control modes enabled, even with no audio playing, across ANC, Adaptive, and Transparency settings.
- Multiple flyers report a sharp whine at cruising altitude around 39,000 feet that can force removal of an earbud during flights.
- Reports and analysis point to an unstable ear-tip seal interacting with cabin pressure and microphones to create an ANC feedback loop, though no cause is confirmed.
- The problem appears to affect a minority of units, with inconsistent accounts over which earbud is worse and many owners reporting no issues.
- Apple has not publicly addressed the complaints, store exchanges are occurring in some cases, and suggested steps include trying different tips, reseating and cleaning, toggling modes, updating or resetting, or testing during the return window.