Owen PalmerBy Owen Palmer

Updated November 2026

To change setting on AirPods, you open the Bluetooth menu on your paired device, select your AirPods, and adjust options like double-tap actions, noise control, and name. Most changes take under a minute and sync across your Apple devices. The steps below cover iPhone, iPad, and Mac, plus a few fixes for settings that do not appear.

Change AirPods Settings on an iPhone or iPad

Your iPhone or iPad is the main place to adjust AirPods settings. Make sure your AirPods are connected before you start.

Shopping for one? See our guide: AirPods Pro 3 Case Review: Features, Pros and Cons.

  1. Open the Settings app and tap Bluetooth.
  2. Find your AirPods in the list of devices and tap the blue info icon (the small “i” in a circle) next to them.
  3. Choose the setting you want to change, such as Double-Tap on AirPods, Noise Control, or Automatic Ear Detection.
  4. Select your preferred option. Changes save automatically, so you can back out of the screen when you finish.

Apple also lets you rename your AirPods from this same screen. If you want a full walkthrough, see How to Change AirPods Name: Step-by-Step on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Change AirPods Settings on a Mac

On a Mac, the controls sit under Bluetooth settings in System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).

  1. Click the Apple menu and open System Settings.
  2. Select Bluetooth in the sidebar.
  3. Hover over your AirPods in the device list and click Options or the info button.
  4. Adjust the controls you need, then close the window.

Adjust Noise Control and Volume Options

Noise control is one of the settings people change most often. On supported AirPods models, you can switch between Noise Cancellation, Transparency, and Off. You can set this from the Bluetooth info screen described above, or from Control Center by pressing and holding the volume slider while the AirPods are connected.

If the sound feels too quiet after adjusting these options, the issue may be the volume level rather than a setting. Our guide to How to Make AirPods Louder: 6 Settings and Fixes That Work covers the levers that matter most.

Fix Settings That Do Not Appear

Sometimes the options you expect are missing. Owners often report that this happens for one of three reasons: the AirPods are not connected to the device you are using, the firmware is out of date, or the device is signed into a different Apple ID than the one that paired the AirPods.

Problem What to check
Settings screen is empty Confirm the AirPods are connected and in your ear or case-open range
Noise control missing Confirm your AirPods model supports noise control
Changes do not stick Update iOS, iPadOS, or macOS, then reconnect
Double-tap option greyed out Confirm the AirPods are in your ears and not paused

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Looking for settings in the Music app. AirPods controls live in Bluetooth settings, not inside individual apps.
  • Changing settings on the wrong device. Adjustments made on one iPhone may not apply to a Mac unless both are signed into the same Apple ID.
  • Forgetting to put the AirPods in your ears. Several options, including automatic ear detection, depend on the sensors.
  • Skipping software updates. Newer settings often require a recent operating system.
  • Assuming a missing option means a fault. Some features only appear on specific AirPods models.

A clean, compatible charging case and a firm, correctly sized ear tip can make the sensor-based settings behave more consistently. Ear tips matter most for automatic ear detection and noise control.

  • Replacement silicone ear tips for AirPods Pro, which help the fit that noise control relies on. View on Amazon
  • A protective silicone case for AirPods, which keeps the case and buttons easy to press. View on Amazon

FAQ

Why can’t I change settings on my AirPods from my Android phone?

Many AirPods settings, including double-tap actions and noise control modes, are managed through Apple’s operating systems. Android phones can connect and play audio, but they cannot access these menus.

Do AirPods settings sync across my devices?

Many settings sync across devices signed into the same Apple ID, though a few options may be device-specific. If a change does not appear on another device, check that both are signed in and up to date.

What should I do if the settings still will not change?

Reset the AirPods by placing them in the case, holding the setup button until the status light flashes amber then white, and then reconnecting. If problems continue, contact Apple Support for help.

Conclusion

Changing AirPods settings takes only a few taps once you know where to look. Start in the Bluetooth menu on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and check connection and software updates if an option is missing. Small adjustments like double-tap actions and noise control can make a noticeable difference in daily use.

Ready to choose one?

Owen Palmer

About Owen Palmer

Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our brand headphones & noise cancelling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.