Apple resolving AirPods call quality issues with firmware update

If you've ever been disappointed by the call audio quality of your AirPods, you're not alone. Finally, after years of complaints, Apple seems to be taking action by addressing this issue through a new firmware update. However, it remains unclear whether this update will be available for all AirPods generations or limited to newer models like the AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro 2, SSP reported.

Numerous AirPods owners have expressed frustration with the call quality while using these earbuds, often describing it as sounding "underwater." With the new AirPods beta firmware, Apple aims to rectify this problem and provide clear audio quality during calls, as reported by iMore.

Although the update is not yet widely available, a user named @hrolnd on X (previously Twitter) discovered the latest Mac and AirPods firmware beta and shared a short video demonstrating its improvements. @hrolnd also mentioned that Apple has improved AirPods call quality by maintaining the same 48000kHz sampling rate during calls, labeling it a potential "game changer" once introduced to the iPhone.

In another video, Apple showcases its unique approach to codec switching when the microphone is activated. While some users speculate that this could involve proprietary hardware, others suggest that it's more likely a result of smart engineering techniques, such as reducing stereo inputs to a mono input and adjusting the three-channel setup to two, according to a Headphonesty report quoting user @gssp_acc on X.

Despite a few minor flaws in the firmware identified by users like @hrolnd, there's no doubt that this upcoming update will greatly enhance the Bluetooth call experience for iPhone users once it becomes available.

Analysis shows that call quality has become a key focus in the realm of wireless earbuds. In 2015, Onkyo's W800BT earbuds, which featured one microphone in each bud, were considered groundbreaking. However, the standard now typically includes three beam-forming microphones per earpiece in most wireless earbuds. This technology enables features such as active noise cancellation and ambient noise reduction using proprietary antiphase technology, effectively eliminating background noise and enhancing voice clarity during Bluetooth calls.