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 Feb 6, 2026 4:11 PM

PROBLEM RESOLVED WITH AFTER MARKET EAR TIPS.


Further to my previous theories that the problem is caused by a flaw in the the Apple Ear Tip design - most likely the mesh surfaces trapping moisture, I decided to try an after market Ear tip. I purchased the Comply ‘MAX Truegrip’ Memory Foam Ear Tips. I took these on a 3hr+ bike ride and no issues. I then wore them for the remainder of the day while building a fence in hot sun. No issues at all. TBH they also have better sound quality and have a more comfortable fit to the Apple Version. They are quite pricy however at $51 NZ ($30 US) for 3 sets.


I am very disappointed that Apple has not addressed the issue, and don’t seem to be owning it at all. I have had no further response from them and wasted countless hours and money trying to resolve this!

116 replies

Nov 1, 2025 8:10 PM in response to aeneas770

I have also had this issue. I think it’s something to do with sensor interference. But I’ve never had this issue with other AirPods. I first had the issue day 1 with the first pair I ordered. I replaced them for a new pair…. Once again… same issue. I’m not sure if it’s gonna get a software fix. I’m tempted to return them and go buy from another brand. I was considering beats but I’m worried with the same chip I’ll get the same problem. I do use them for work to take calls, so this is a massive bummer.

Nov 8, 2025 8:56 AM in response to aeneas770

I'm on my 3rd pair of replacement airpod pro 3's due to this issue. This 3rd set is exhibiting the same issue within a day of getting them. I'm sure if I get a 4th pair of replacements the same issue will arise. High pitched full volume feedback noise (Like when you get a microphone too close to a speaker) randomly happens when using any of the modes other than "Off", a weird popping sound usually starts first then something sounds like it's physically coming apart within the earbud then the earbud(s) sound like their underwater and the high pitched screeching feedback sound persistently happens.

Nov 10, 2025 7:31 AM in response to aeneas770

Purchased a set in late October 2025, had screeching feedback on two 6.5 hour flights. These are worse than useless, they are dangerous. Contacted Apple only to be told that they have no record of this happening on 3 Pros. Unless Apple contacts me with acknowledgment and a plan they will be going back. Sad, because my Pro 2s worked just fine on the same flight.


Worst experience I have ever had with Apple. We deserve better.

Dec 12, 2025 4:57 AM in response to aeneas770

I got my AirPods Pro 3 replaced by Apple today, but after testing them, guess what? The high-pitched noise is still there—whether I’m adjusting the AirPods in my ear or just using them normally. And yes, I’ve changed the ear tips, and it doesn’t make any difference.




After hearing about so many people having the same issue even after multiple replacements, I just want my money back at this point..

Feb 12, 2026 7:41 AM in response to aeneas770

Same issue here. Changed one pair and now having the same issue on another. Need to go to the Apple Store for a refund. Can I even get a refund since the 14 days have passed? I have the full range of Apple products, but this one just doesn't work. My wife has the first-gen Pros and has never had any issues — so sad that they're not working for me. Getting a headache from that high-pitched noise. It could probably damage my hearing. I liked them except for this issue, which is just insane. So irritating.

Feb 18, 2026 4:59 AM in response to trueblue53

Alas. This morning, out of the blue, the 'feedback' squeal once again rang in my right ear before I had a chance to test out the original Apple eartips. So this problem, for me, also occurs with the 3rd party 'Comply' eartips (medium size). I was riding an electrical bike, no sweat, temperature outside was near freezing, the EarPods were in 'transparency' mode and I was listening to a podcast. It did seem like something 'popped' in my ear but I could be wrong. Small consolation, I had a spotless week with the EarPods before circumstances apparently changed for the worse. What a bummer. I'll return my (fourth) AP3 set to Apple tomorrow. Back to my trusted AP2... grmbl.

Feb 18, 2026 4:21 PM in response to trueblue53

well @trueblue, that really sucks! So far so good me - it even rained on my ride this morning and I wore them throughout... I have size large and got the Comply 'MAX' model which I understand are different to the standard Comply tips. I see Apple have just released another Pro 3 beta version firmware update 8B34f (not rolled out to the general public yet) so you may want to hold off on the return and see if that does anything? I am not holding my breath however as I still doubt this can be fixed with Firmware...

High pitched noise on AirPods Pro 3

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