Active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces unwanted ambient sound using the headphones' built-in electronics.
How it works
Microphones pick up noise outside of the earpiece. The headphones' electronics create a sound wave with the opposite phase and play it back in the earpiece. When the two waves meet, they cancel each other out. The noise doesn't disappear – you just don't register it.
You may hear a faint hiss
There is usually a very low level of white noise from the electronics. In very quiet environments with no audio playing, you might notice it. Music or other audio usually masks this sound.
What ANC is best at
Active noise cancellation works best for repetitive, low-frequency noises (for example, engine or air conditioning hum). It is less effective for higher-frequency sounds like people talking.
Wind noise
When using ANC or Transparent Hearing outdoors, wind noise may be picked up by the microphones. The microphones used for ANC and Transparent Hearing have limited resistance to strong air currents, so wind can create noise.
Practical note
The amount of cancellation can vary by model and how well the headphones fit your ears. If you have questions about a specific model, check the user manual or contact our support team for guidance.