Audio

Some AirPods Pro owners have had issues with crackling, static, or noise cancellation while listening to their earphones. Firmware version 2B588, which was rolled out in November seems to be the culprit behind some of these problems. Apple has since released updates for the AirPods Pro, with the latest firmware version 2D15. It's easy to check what firmware is installed on your AirPods.

Wireless Bluetooth headphones are great for untethered listening. But many devices have traditional headphone connectors, rendering AirPods, Beats, and other wireless options useless. Apple officially ditched the headphone jack on the iPhone 7 and later, making the Lightning to 3.5mm adapter the missing link for wired headphones. Twelve South now makes a similar adapter to connect the latest wireless headphones such as AirPods directly to a 3.5mm headphone port.

Spotify recently announced it has surpassed 100 million paid subscribers. How many of these music listeners know there's a built-in audio equalizer right in the Spotify app? iPhone, iPad and iPod touch owners can choose from a selection of presets for different sound content, or customize audio frequencies manually.

Listening to tracks from a variety of albums on Apple Music can be seamless and convenient. Until you find yourself reaching for the volume buttons too frequently. Depending on the track, the iPhone, iPad or iPod touch may jump in loudness between tracks or different audio sources. There is a simple way to quickly make sure the next song doesn't play too loudly (or softly).

AirPods and headphones connected to the iPhone, iPad or iPod touch normally deliver audio in full stereo. In fact, even the external speakers on recent models offer stereo sound. However, there are times when mono audio may be preferred. One reason why iPhone owners might disable stereo would be to share AirPods or a single set of headphones between two people.