# Bringing Back the “Off” Option for AirPods Pro Noise Control Settings
If you’ve recently modified your AirPods Pro settings and found the “Off” toggle missing, you are not by yourself. A number of users have shown dissatisfaction with this alteration, especially following the iOS 18 update. Luckily, there’s a simple method to reinstate this setting, giving you better control over your auditory experience.
## Grasping AirPods Pro Noise Control Modes
Traditionally, AirPods Pro users benefited from the option to toggle between four different listening modes:
1. **Off**: Turns off all noise control functions, permitting a pure listening experience.
2. **Active Noise Cancellation**: Employs outward-facing microphones to sense outside sounds and neutralize them with anti-noise, effectively eliminating undesired noise.
3. **Transparency Mode**: Permits external sounds, allowing users to stay aware of their environment while still enjoying audio.
4. **Adaptive Audio**: A combination of Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode that modifies itself according to surrounding noise levels.
Nevertheless, since the launch of iOS 18, Apple has eliminated the “Off” option from the standard settings, limiting users to just the Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and Adaptive Audio choices. This modification has caused significant annoyance among AirPods Pro users, as noted by Spencer Dailey on his blog, Key Discussions.
## Steps to Restore the “Off” Option
If you wish to bring back the “Off” option in your AirPods Pro settings, follow these easy instructions:
1. Connect your AirPods to your iPhone.
2. Open the **Settings** app.
3. Select your **AirPods Pro** at the top of the list.
4. Scroll down and toggle on the setting labeled **”Off Listening Mode.”**
By completing these actions, the “Off” option will become available again, enabling you to switch between it and the other noise control modes via both the Control Center and the Settings app.
## Updates with iOS 18.1
With the arrival of iOS 18.1, Apple added various new hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2, including a hearing protection feature. This update has also introduced a noticeable change for users: even after reinstating the “Off” option, AirPods Pro 2 will automatically revert from “Off” to Transparency mode whenever they are inserted into the ears.
This behavior is associated with the new hearing protection feature, which cautions that when the “Off” mode is activated, “your hearing is unprotected.” Consequently, iOS 18.1 proactively switches users from “Off” to Transparency mode to safeguard hearing.
## How to Stop Automatic Switching Behavior
If you’d like to keep the “Off” setting without any automatic switching, there’s an extra toggle you can modify:
1. Connect your AirPods to your iPhone.
2. Open the **Settings** app.
3. Tap on **Accessibility**.
4. Scroll down and choose **AirPods and Beats**.
5. Scroll down and toggle off **”Turn Off Loud Sound Reduction.”**
By adhering to these steps, your AirPods Pro can stay in the “Off” noise control mode until you opt to change it manually. However, it’s crucial to realize that while in “Off” mode, your AirPods Pro will not diminish harmful levels of background noise.
## Why Opt for the “Off” Setting?
The choice to utilize the “Off” setting ultimately hinges on personal taste. Some users may enjoy the battery-saving advantages of turning off noise control features. Others may prefer the uninterrupted experience provided by Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode. No matter your preference, knowing the available settings empowers you to customize your listening experience to fit your requirements.
## In Summary
The elimination and later restoration of the “Off” option in AirPods Pro settings underscore Apple’s continuous dedication to user satisfaction and hearing health. By adhering to the specified steps, you can regain command over your listening modes and make the most of your AirPods Pro. Whether you lean towards the tranquility of the “Off” mode or the immersive nature of Active Noise Cancellation, the decision is entirely yours.
