Source: Apple
At Apple’s latest event, the company introduced its latest wireless audio lineup, showcasing innovations across the AirPods range. The newly announced AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2 with groundbreaking health features, and updated AirPods Max represent Apple’s continued push toward high-quality sound and enhanced usability, with a strong focus on health and personalization.
AirPods 4: A Refined Design with Two Models
Apple officially unveiled the much-anticipated AirPods 4, boasting improved design and sound. For the first time, Apple offers two distinct models: a standard version priced at $129, and a higher-tier model with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for $179. Both models share an open-ear design without silicone tips, and a refined shape that, according to Apple, ensures a secure and comfortable fit for a wider range of ears.
These AirPods are powered by Apple’s H2 chip, which enables features like personalized spatial audio, transparency mode, and adaptive audio that dynamically adjusts the sound to the user's environment. Additionally, Apple claims the AirPods 4 offer significantly enhanced audio quality, describing them as the “best-sounding AirPods ever.”
- USB-C Charging: The charging case for both versions is USB-C compatible, and the ANC model supports wireless charging and Find My location tracking, thanks to an integrated speaker in the case.
- Battery Life: Up to 5 hours of listening time with ANC off, and 4 hours with ANC on.
The AirPods 4 are now available for pre-order and will ship on September 20.
Key Features of AirPods 4:
- Refined, ergonomic design
- Two models: standard and ANC-equipped
- Powered by the H2 chip for advanced audio processing
- USB-C and wireless charging (for ANC model)
- Smallest AirPods charging case to date
- Prices: $129 for the standard model, $179 for ANC
AirPods Pro 2: A Health-Focused Update
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 received a significant update with three new health-related features, positioning them as more than just earbuds. Apple highlighted the clinical-grade hearing aid capabilities that integrate seamlessly with iPhone, including a hearing test that users can perform in just five minutes. Once completed, the AirPods Pro 2 creates a personalized hearing profile, which is applied to all sound across devices, including music, movies, and calls.
- Hearing Aid Feature: The AirPods Pro 2 can serve as over-the-counter hearing aids, allowing users to amplify external sounds based on their personalized hearing profile.
- Hearing Protection: Enabled by default, this feature helps users protect their hearing across different listening modes.
Apple announced that these health features are awaiting FDA clearance and other regulatory approvals, underscoring the AirPods Pro 2’s potential impact on personal health and well-being.
Key Features of AirPods Pro 2:
- Clinically validated hearing test with iPhone
- Personalized hearing aid functionality
- Hearing protection enabled by default
- Available with noise-canceling and transparency modes
Updated AirPods Max: Now with USB-C and New Colors
Apple also unveiled a refreshed version of the AirPods Max, their premium over-ear headphones, now available with a USB-C charging port. In addition, the AirPods Max come in three new colors: orange, purple, and starlight, while maintaining the $549 price tag.
The headphones continue to feature high-fidelity audio, active noise cancellation, and spatial audio, but the updates ensure they’re in line with Apple’s transition to USB-C charging across devices. They will be available for order starting today and will officially launch on September 20.
Key Features of Updated AirPods Max:
- USB-C charging
- New color options: orange, purple, starlight
- Available starting at $549
The Future of AirPods
Apple’s latest AirPods lineup reflects the company’s push towards personalized audio experiences, with a strong focus on health, user comfort, and convenience. Whether it’s the everyday user looking for affordability with the new AirPods 4, those in need of health-focused features with the AirPods Pro 2, or audiophiles seeking high-quality sound and style with the updated AirPods Max, Apple continues to cater to a wide range of users.
The AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, and updated AirPods Max are all available for pre-order now and will hit stores on September 20.
Stay tuned for our in-depth reviews on each of these products to see how they perform in real-world scenarios.
