High pitched noise on AirPods Pro 3

First day of use and out of nowhere I start getting a high pitched noise from my left AirPod. The sound comes when either changing listening modes, or adjusting it in my ear. Others have had this issue and even when getting a replacement pair it does it again. Software bug or warranty?

Posted on Sep 20, 2025 1:11 PM

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Posted on Dec 22, 2025 3:17 PM

Thanks for the update. Based on my previous theory here High pitched noise on AirPods Pro 3 - Apple Community I can’t see how any firmware update will fix this. I think they are going to have to re-design the EarTips to prevent the condensation / moisture buildup. It would be interesting to try the AirPod Pro2 tips on the AirPod Pro 3’s but obviously they don’t fit…


Comparing the design of the 2 models, the black mesh surface of the Pro 3 is more convex than the Pro 2 and therefore sticks out further and I suspect is actually touching the white mesh surface in the eartip. Any moisture would therefore get stuck there between the two layers …


I have done many more 2hr + bike rides since my post linked above and every time this issue starts, if I remove the tips, wipe the black mesh on the AirPod, and dry inside my ear it fixes the problem for the next hour, then I just keep doing it every hour to the end…

100 replies

Nov 12, 2025 9:20 AM in response to aeneas770

One thing I have noticed is that this tends to happen when there is some kind of consistent hum in the area. For example, in my office the HVAC system tends to produce a constant hum and often when I put in my AirPods this issue shows up. Same thing happens sometimes on airplanes when there is a constant hum in the background. Usually, if I move somewhere that is quieter and put them in, the issue stops. Not sure if this is the cause or not, but if anyone at Apple is paying attention to this thread, it's worth exploring.

Nov 18, 2025 4:37 AM in response to aeneas770

I have this issue with now my 3rd try on these Pro3`s, all 3 sets from apple store have had this noise and i cant stand it more than a few min. the first 2 sets i bought it the week it came out, figured it was a software bug and decided to just wait a bit, now i got it my 3rd time on nov 17 and it didn't happen right away but eventually it came back, not so much the super loud at moments high pitch screech but a constant howling noise like the window slightly being open on the highway. I'm Fully Convinced it is just this design and the way it sits in my ear. i tried every single ear bud combination, none of it works. i returned them and going to get the second gen


Sep 30, 2025 2:15 PM in response to aeneas770

After a replacement of the left AirPod, then a full exchange for a new set, and still having the same issue, I decided to return them.. I’m still not sure if it’s a hardware or software issue, and it may have something to do with air pressure too, but I’m pretty sure the shape of my ear has something to do with the problem. I let my wife try the last ones I got and she wasn’t getting the high pitch audio feedback while I was getting it almost constantly. I’m just gonna wait to see if they fix it somehow and just then maybe buy them again

Oct 16, 2025 6:31 AM in response to aeneas770

Same issue, more prominent on the left ear pod for some reason, but somehow it starts to migrate to the right a little bit as well. Had the issue during a six hour flight on an airbus A320 Neo, and then a Boeing 737 Max. For some reason, it didn’t happen on a Boeing 757 three hour flight, maybe pressure or the harmonics I’m not sure. Either way it is screeching really loud and painful. I had to turn off the ANC or transparency functions going to the Apple Store to see if they can replace. Hopefully they are not out of the left AirPod. Never had an issue flying for two years with the AirPod Pro 2.

Nov 4, 2025 7:57 AM in response to aeneas770

Same issue here. Left earbud. Had one pair replaced already because of the issue (tinny, hollow sound with ANC and Transparency, painful feedback on ANC). Initially mostly in loud environments like gym, airplanes, but now also happening witj just normal listening. Adjusting the earbud also causes high pitched feedback. On a plane ride recently it got so bad the guy next to me could actually hear the feedback. Tried resetting multiple times, tried different tips, no luck. Eventually logged a return. Apple support confirmed there was an issue and would replace, but couldn’t replace because “there was a 3 week waiting period for stock”. Got a refund, then bought a new pair through Amazon, but replacement pair does exactly the same thing. Super disappointed. Will likely return and just keep using APP2’s, or go to a different brand.

Nov 12, 2025 7:08 AM in response to aeneas770

I’m having the exact same issue with my AirPods Pro 3rd gen. Since the first day, there’s a constant hiss or “whoosh” sound, and sometimes a short high-pitched beep — especially when switching modes or touching the earbuds.


It’s even worse on airplanes — the hiss becomes unbearable even with ANC on. I’ve tried resets, firmware updates, cleaning, and different ear tips. Apple ran diagnostics and said everything looks fine, but I already had to escalate the case because the problem persists.




Really need help or confirmation if anyone actually got this fixed or if it’s a hardware flaw.

Jan 12, 2026 9:57 AM in response to aeneas770

I’ve updated to the newest version on my AirPods Pro 3 and I still get VERY loud and high pitched noise. I’ve replaced them and still have the issue. Everyone is mentioning that it only happens with one but anytime I lay down, wear a beanie, or go to take them out I’ve gotten a loud noise. And if I take them out and hold them it sounds like crickets. I’ve called Apple support snd they refused to help me unless I buy a new pair. To me that seems a little messed up seeing as this is a manufactured issue or software issue. It’s gotten to the point where I fell asleep with them in my ear and now my ear and head hurt. Never have I had this happen from wearing in hear headphones to bed. Very disappointing.

Jan 12, 2026 10:30 AM in response to aeneas770

very frustrating, I have the exact same issue with my pro2 I am only able to keep the left one in my ear by turning off the ANC modes otherwise this noise is unbearable and is probably around 90db, I will try to make a more precise sound measurement, many people seem to be impacted so I suspect that this situation is under scrutiny, apologies I can only wish for a solution and I don’t have the magic recipe to enjoy these great products at their full

High pitched noise on AirPods Pro 3

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