The highly anticipated Apple AirPods 4 have officially launched. Apple unveiled these latest iterations of their beloved wireless earbuds on September 9, alongside the iPhone 16, the newest Apple Watch, and some updates regarding the AirPods Pro 2.
Here’s what you need to know about them.
New Models: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC
Apple has introduced not one but two new models of AirPods. The standard AirPods 4 are replacing the second and third-generation models, which were available until the announcement of this new version. Additionally, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) serves as the brand’s mid-tier option.
Both models share the same physical design, featuring a shape that Apple claims offers the most comfortable fit yet. The AirPods 4 with ANC incorporates noise cancellation technology without requiring silicone ear tips, which are exclusive to the AirPods Pro 2.
Gone are the tap controls from the second generation; the AirPods 4 now feature squeezable force-sensing controls positioned on the stems, similar to those found in the third generation and the AirPods Pro. Moreover, both models boast an IP54 rating for dust resistance.
The charging case has also been redesigned, now 10% smaller than that of the AirPods 3.
Cost and Availability
The AirPods 4 are priced at $129, matching the cost of the now-retired second-generation AirPods. The AirPods 4 with ANC, on the other hand, retails for $179, the same price as the discontinued third-generation model.
Preorders for both variants began on September 9, with retail availability set to commence on September 20. While Apple has ceased selling the second and third generations in its stores, other retailers might offer discounts, making it a great time to buy those older models if you’re not after the latest features.
Features and Technologies
The fourth-generation AirPods are equipped with Apple’s H2 chip, which is also found in the AirPods Pro 2. This enables a host of advanced features such as audio sharing, personalized spatial audio with head tracking, voice isolation during calls, and the option to respond to Siri commands through head gestures—branded by Apple as Siri Interactions.
Charging is possible through USB-C for both models, aligning the entire AirPods lineup with this new port. Interestingly, Apple has decided not to include a USB-C charging cable with the AirPods 4, marking a departure from their previous practice. This trend was also seen with Beats earlier this year, suggesting a shift towards selling earbuds without accompanying cables.
The AirPods 4 with ANC include an active noise cancellation feature, and their case is compatible with any Qi wireless charging pad or the MagSafe charger used for Apple Watch. According to Apple, this case ranks as the smallest in the world capable of wireless charging.
Similar to the AirPods Pro 2, the case for the AirPods 4 with ANC is equipped with a built-in speaker for easy tracking via Apple’s Find My app, although it lacks the lanyard loop found on the Pro’s case.
Both models feature a new acoustic architecture with a low-distortion driver and a high dynamic range amplifier, delivering superior audio with rich bass and crystal-clear highs.
New to the fourth generation is enhanced voice call quality during FaceTime sessions, achieved with the AAC-ELD codec for improved fidelity and minimal latency. This feature supports high-quality audio up to 16-bit/48kHz, making it suitable for multiplayer gaming too.
Active Noise Cancellation without Eartips
While some brands have attempted active noise cancellation with semi-open earbuds in the past, results have often been underwhelming. Products like Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Live and Galaxy Buds 3 have struggled to provide effective noise reduction without eartips.
However, early impressions of the AirPods 4 with ANC suggest they are more successful in this area. A detailed review is forthcoming, but initial feedback from a demo during Apple’s launch event has been positive.
This ANC-equipped model also features a transparency mode and adaptive audio that adjusts ANC and transparency based on your environment. The conversational awareness feature seamlessly transitions to transparency mode when you start speaking, lowering the volume of your music so you can engage in conversations.
Battery Life
Battery life remains one of the few unchanged aspects in the fourth generation of AirPods. In fact, it may have slightly diminished. Apple states you can expect up to five hours of listening time on a single charge (or up to four hours with ANC activated), with a total of 30 hours when factoring in the charging case. While the previous generation also offered 30 hours of total listening time, it provided six hours of use per charge.
Just five minutes in the charging case can offer around an additional hour of listening time.
Should You Upgrade from ANC to Pro?
Considering the new design and comfort level with the ANC feature, one might wonder whether the AirPods Pro 2 are still worth the extra investment. Although a direct comparison is yet to be conducted, we expect the Pro variant to maintain superior ANC and sound quality due to their fully-sealed design with silicone tips.
Additionally, Apple has indicated that the AirPods Pro 2 will incorporate unique hearing-related features including hearing aid capabilities, a hearing assessment, and protection features. Currently, there’s no indication that similar functionalities will be made available for the AirPods 4.
