AirPods Pro 3 ANC issues with firmware update 8B34

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AirPods Pro 3 ANC issues with firmware update 8B34

When I updated my AirPods Pro 3 to the firmware version 8B34, I noticed that the noise cancellation became a lot worse.

When I bought the headphones, I very much enjoyed the power noise cancellation and it genuinely changed my productivity as I live in a very noisy house. I was very disappointed when one day I put my AirPods in and I could still hear most of the conversations in my house.

Can someone please confirm that this is an issue that should be fixed? I have factory reset my AirPods multiple times (I am talking about the full factory reset not just forgetting the device) and still no improvement on the issue. Perhaps my unit is defective although I a pretty confident that it is an issue with the firmware.

Posted on Feb 6, 2026 2:04 PM

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Answer 1

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LotusPilot

Level 10

303,104 points

Feb 7, 2026 6:09 AM in response to BlueCent

You're not alone. I too have encountered issues with reduced AirPods Pro 3 ANC-performance when used in noise-cancelling mode.

When in a room with other people that are having a conversation between themselves, the high-frequency elements of their voices "break through" the Airpods Pro 3 noise cancellation.

No amount of refining the physical fit of the AirPods, to improve the acoustic seal, will resolve the problem. The Acoustic Seal Test shows a good fit in both ears.

This reduction is performance corresponds with the 8B34 firmware update.

I can only suggest that you (a) submit a Bug Report to Apple via the Product Feedback portal - and (b) report the issue directly to Apple Support.

Product Feedback - Apple

You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively you can initiate and manage your support cases using the Apple Support App. If not already installed on your device, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

Please don't rely upon others to report the issue - as Apple may not assign resources to investigate and resolve the issue until sufficient reports have been received. Every report counts.

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