In the bustling world of technology, Apple continues to forge ahead with innovative features designed to enhance user experience. The tech giant has introduced a feature that turns out ambient noise during phone calls, ensuring that your voice is the only sound the recipient hears. This feature, known as Mic Mode, is accessible via your iPhone’s Control Center and was introduced with Apple’s iOS 15 in 2021. However, it’s important to note that the feature is only compatible with iPhone XR, iPhone XS models, and later iPhones with iOS 16.4 or later.

Voice Isolation, the key component of Mic Mode, is not only exclusive to iPhones but is also available for iPads that run on iPadOS 15 or later and Macs running MacOS Monterey or later. This feature is a game-changer for FaceTime users as well, offering a Wide Spectrum option that enhances surrounding noises without affecting the clarity of the user’s voice. However, this comes with a slight trade-off, diminishing the overall quality and clarity of the call. By default, cellular calls on an iPhone use the standard mic mode, delivering every background noise and voice to the recipient, and users will have to switch back to standard to access that type of sound quality.

Apple’s Mic Mode: A Solution to Ambient Noise on Calls

Have you ever tried to have a phone conversation while navigating a noisy street? Apple’s Mic Mode feature, included in the iPhone’s Control Center, could be the solution to your noise-related woes.

Tuning Out the Noise with Mic Mode

Mic Mode is a feature introduced with Apple’s iOS 15 in 2021. It enables users to tune out ambient noise during phone calls, making communication clearer for both parties. To use this feature, users simply need to swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen during a call, select Mic Mode, and then choose Voice Isolation. This prioritizes the user’s voice and blocks out surrounding noise.

However, it’s worth noting that Mic Mode is currently only accessible on iPhone XR, iPhone XS models, and later iPhones with iOS 16.4 or later. Additionally, it’s available for FaceTime calls and also iPads running on iPadOS 15 or later and Macs running MacOS Monterey or later.

Enhancements and Changes in iOS 17

Apple’s upcoming iOS 17, set to roll out in September, is packed with new features. The tech giant has taken user feedback into account and is introducing improvements in Siri, autocorrect, and even the way calls are ended.

One of the most anticipated changes is the new Siri activation command. Users will no longer need to say ‘Hey Siri’; instead, they can simply say ‘Siri’. This feature has long been requested by iOS users and Apple seems to have finally taken note.

The autocorrect feature is also getting a revamp with a new language model that provides a more accessible shortcut to revert to the original word if the system’s autocorrection is incorrect.

New Features and Tweaks to Look Out For

In addition to the above changes, Apple is also introducing a new feature called Check In. This tool allows you to notify family members or friends when you’ve reached a destination safely.

The end call button is also set to move from the center of the bottom of the screen to the bottom right.

Finally, iMessage apps will be consolidated in one place, typically above the texting area. A new plus button will allow users to view frequently sent items like photos, audio messages, and location details.

Takeaways

With these new features and improvements, Apple continues to refine the iOS experience and enhance its functionality and user-friendliness. The Mic Mode feature, in particular, is a game-changer for those who often find themselves taking calls in noisy environments. As we look forward to the release of iOS 17, it’s clear that Apple is listening to its users and making changes based on their feedback.