If you’re a big music fan, you probably love having your sound settings exactly to your preferences. Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t previously offered a user-adjustable EQ for AirPods. There have been automatic audio features that adjust the listening experience based on your environment or other factors, but they don’t give you direct control over the frequency bands.
With iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, Apple has introduced a custom EQ feature for compatible AirPods. This guide takes you through where to find the Custom EQ AirPods settings and how to check if your devices will work with this feature.
Custom EQ AirPods: Check if Your AirPods Are Compatible
The new personalized EQ AirPods settings are only accessible on compatible devices. You will need an iPhone running iOS 27 or an iPad running iPadOS 27. You’ll also need a compatible AirPods model with the required firmware.
You also need to check that your listening gear is compatible with the new custom EQ feature. Here are the AirPods that should work with Custom EQ:
AirPods 4 or later
AirPods Pro 2 or later
AirPods Max 2
These AirPods models use Apple’s H2 chip, which enables the Custom EQ feature.
Personalized EQ AirPods Settings: Getting Started
Step 1. Once you’ve checked that your AirPods are compatible, make sure your device’s software is up to date. On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
Step 2. Once the software update is complete, connect your AirPods to your iPhone or iPad. AirPods firmware updates are delivered automatically while the AirPods are charging and within Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
AirPods firmware updates are installed automatically while your AirPods are charging and within Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Personalized EQ AirPods Settings: Where to Find Them
Step 1. Once your iPhone or iPad and AirPods are up to date, connect your AirPods and go to Settings > [your AirPods] > Audio & Routing.
Alternatively, you can go to Bluetooth, find your AirPods in the list of connected devices, and tap on the “i” next to them to access the same menu.
Step 2. Tap on Equalizer.
Step 3. Finally, press “Custom,” and you can adjust the low, mid, and high frequencies to your liking. Use the slider to drive up the low frequencies for a more bassy sound, or slide the trebles (high frequencies) down if the sound is too tinny or shrill.
The new Custom EQ is a three-band equalizer, so it offers broad adjustments rather than the fine-grained control of a multi-band or parametric EQ. Low frequencies primarily affect bass, Mid affects much of the vocal and instrumental range, and High affects treble and other higher-frequency detail.
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