On Tuesday, Apple released firmware version 4A400 for the second-generation AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. On the AirPods Pro, the new firmware version enables the “Conversation Boost” feature that Apple previewed at WWDC in June.
Apple says Conversation Boost is designed to help people with mild hearing challenges stay more connected in conversations. The feature uses the AirPods Pro’s beam-forming microphones to boost the volume of a person talking in front of you, making it easier to listen to a face-to-face conversation, and there is also an option to reduce ambient noise.
To turn on Conversation Boost, the AirPods Pro must be updated to firmware version 4A400. AirPods Pro firmware updates are installed over the air, but there is no manual way to force an update. In general, AirPods Pro connected to an iPhone or iPad should automatically update to the latest firmware version after a fairly short period of time. It may help to keep the AirPods Pro in their charging case and connected to a power source.
MacDailyNews Note: With AirPods Pro and firmware version 4A400, you can turn on Conversation Boost in iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 by:
- Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual > Headphone Accommodations
- Scroll down and tap on Transparency Mode
- Trun on Conversation Boost
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Firmware updates on accessories like AirPods AirPods Pro Max AirTags etc. is absolutely horrible I can never get my stuff to update it’s an absolute waste. It’s been along time since Apple products “Just Worked”
I simply love, love, love Apple’s dedication to those with needs in the “background.” Presenting tech that assists those with physical challenges is an Apple moat that reinvigorates my slumping appreciation resulting from Apple’s main focus of dumbed-down pop.
This sector and privacy/security (the jury is still sequestered on this one) is all Apple would need for me to remain in the fold…assuming quality remained.
Square peg-round hole renaissance, please.
I’m still hoping for a Conversation Tune Out feature.
And maybe a Cancel-Audio-from-Nearby-Blaring-TV feature.
I have been a user of the JayBird brand for years.
The Vista Two has a feature in their accompanying software app called “Active Noise Cancellation” which allows for tuning out “Nearby-Blaring-TV” and “Conversation-Tune-Out” issues such as “too-loud-supermarket-background-music” and “loud-people-on-cel-phones” issues.
Once in the car, click that feature off by selecting “SurroundSense” (or remove the headphones) and you can safely re-engage with normal traffic sounds.
HTH,
Lawrence
That Gagan Gupta in the video is very telegenic. They should make more use of him during presentations.