The AirPods Pro 3 flight problem

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Reported audio issues with AirPods Pro 3

  • Many users report a loud, high‑pitched screech or whistle, especially:
    • On flights with ANC/Adaptive on, often in the left ear, sometimes both.
    • When reseating or pressing the buds, cupping the outer mic, or when the buds touch pillows, hands, or are together in a case/hand.
  • Others experience:
    • Low‑frequency “rumble” or hollow tube sounds on planes or in cars.
    • Thumps/pops with heel strikes while running or even walking.
    • Harsh feedback around loud tools (saws, grinders, lawnmowers, pressure washers).
  • The noise often disappears if:
    • ANC is switched off, or modes are toggled.
    • The user yawns, removes/reinserts, or breaks the seal slightly.
  • Some see similar artifacts with earlier AirPods Pro, AirPods 4, AirPods Max, Samsung buds, and hearing aids; others say only APP3 misbehave in their A/B tests.

Theories about the cause

  • Strong suspicion of an ANC feedback bug:
    • Users can reproduce squeals only when ANC/Transparency are active.
    • Several describe it as a control‑loop gain/phase instability problem.
  • Others point to:
    • Cabin pressure changes and very tight seals causing pressure gradients.
    • Ear anatomy (jaw movement, left/right canal differences).
    • Environmental factors such as humidity, vibration, EMF, or specific noise spectra.
  • Consensus: likely firmware/algorithmic, but non‑trivial to fix without weakening ANC.

Fit, tips, and physical comfort

  • Many report:
    • Poor or changing seal, especially in the left ear.
    • New tips transmitting body and footstep vibration as painful thumps.
  • Foam or third‑party tips (Azla, Comply, DIY hybrids) often improve seal, comfort, and reduce artifacts, but wear out faster or complicate charging.

Diverging views on APP3 vs earlier models

  • Negative camp:
    • “Step backwards” from APP2; more feedback, weird ANC artifacts, worse transparency, larger case, awkward stalk gestures.
    • Some returned APP3 and reverted to APP2 or switched brands.
  • Positive camp:
    • Noticeably better ANC, sound quality, fit, battery life, and microphones.
    • Many frequent flyers report zero issues over tens of thousands of miles.

Apple ecosystem, updates, and alternatives

  • Forced iOS 26 (and limited support on older OS versions) is widely disliked.
  • Broader debate about Apple lock‑in via iCloud and ecosystem integration.
  • Several users move to Bose, Sony, Beats, IEMs, or cheaper buds; others stay but now wait for real‑world reports before upgrading.