Apple recently unveiled AirPods 4 at its September event, splitting the product into two variants for the first time. There were also smaller updates for AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. Let’s dig a little deeper into everything that’s new.
AirPods 4
Apple has refined the AirPods open-ear design by modeling thousands of ears to figure out the perfect fit. In theory, that not only helps comfort but sounds better too. Apple’s new acoustic architecture, low-distortion driver, and high dynamic range amplifier, boost the audio even further.
The H2 chip enables intelligent audio experiences like Voice Isolation for clearer calls and Siri Interactions that allow users to nod or shake their head to respond to Siri announcements. A new force sensor on the stem provides additional control over media playback and calls.
The charging case is over 10% smaller than its predecessor and now uses USB-C. Despite its small size, Apple promises up to 30 hours of battery life.
AirPods 4 with ANC
This year, Apple is offering an optional upgrade to AirPods 4 that adds pro-level features like Active Noice Cancellation (ANC).
Utilizing upgraded microphones, the H2 chip, and advanced computational audio, ANC can reduce environmental noise like airplane engines and city traffic. This model also boasts a few more features borrowed from AirPods Pro, including Transparency mode and Adaptive Audio.
This is the first time these features have been available in an open-ear design and offers a cheaper route to ANC than AirPods Pro.
AirPods Pro 2
There are no hardware updates for AirPods 2, but later this Fall a software update will add an all-in-one hearing health experience with features focused on prevention, awareness, and assistance.
This could be game-changing for the 1.5 billion people living with hearing loss, as it will allow AirPods 2 to reduce loud sounds, perform scientifically validated hearing tests, and even be used as a clinical-grade hearing aid.
AirPods Max
Not much love for Apple’s most expensive headphones recently. Apple has refreshed the AirPods Max lineup in the smallest way possible, adding new colors and USB-C charging but not much else. They now come in midnight, starlight, blue, purple, and orange, but are due a proper upgrade soon as they lack some of the features of AirPods 4 despite costing around 3x more.
Pricing
AirPods 4 cost $129/£129, while AirPods 4 with ANC are a good chunk more at $179/£179. Above that sits the existing AirPods Pro 2 at $229/£229 and AirPods Max at $499/£499.
All models are available from September 20, with preorders open immediately.