At its “It’s Glowtime” event, Apple has introduced a new range of AirPods, alongside the iPhone 16 series and Apple Watch Series 10. The announcement includes the AirPods 4, AirPods Max in five new colors, and new hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2.
AirPods 4
Apple revealed the AirPods 4, described as its best headphones yet, featuring a new open-ear design aimed at maximizing fit and comfort.
The design leverages an extensive dataset, using advanced modeling tools like 3D photogrammetry and laser topography to map and analyze thousands of ear shapes, compiling over 50 million data points. This innovation aims to provide a shape that comfortably fits a broader range of users worldwide.
The AirPods 4 also introduces a new acoustic architecture with a low-distortion driver and high dynamic range amplifier, plus Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for an immersive experience.
The new H2 chip powers advanced audio features, including Voice Isolation for clearer calls and Siri Interactions, allowing users to nod or shake their heads to respond to Siri prompts.
Additional controls are provided by a new force sensor on the stem, enabling users to play, pause, mute, or end calls with a simple press. Designed for gaming as well, the AirPods 4 offers low wireless audio latency and supports 16-bit, 48kHz audio.
The AirPods 4 deliver up to 24 hours of battery life with the charging case. The new case, featuring USB-C charging, is over 10% smaller in volume compared to its predecessor and provides up to 30 hours of battery life.
The case supports charging with an Apple Watch charger or any Qi-certified charger and, at just 50mm wide, is the smallest wireless charging case in the industry, Apple said.
AirPods 4 with ANC
For the first time, Apple introduces Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to an open-ear design with a new model of the AirPods 4.
With upgraded microphones, the H2 chip, and advanced computational audio, the AirPods 4 with ANC reduces environmental noise, such as airplane engines and city traffic.
Additional features include Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio, and Conversation Awareness, which dynamically adjust audio settings based on the environment.
Quick Specifications: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC
Audio Features
- AirPods 4: Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
- AirPods 4 with ANC: Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, Transparency mode, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
Chip
- H2 Chip with Voice Isolation, “Hey Siri,” and Siri Interactions
Bluetooth
- Bluetooth v5.3
Battery Life
- AirPods 4: Up to 5 hours of listening on a single charge; up to 30 hours total with the charging case
- AirPods 4 with ANC: Up to 5 hours of listening (4 hours with ANC enabled); up to 30 hours total (20 hours with ANC enabled)
Charging
- AirPods 4: USB-C Charging Case with external LED power indicator
- AirPods 4 with ANC: Wireless Charging Case (USB-C) with speaker for “Find My” and external LED power indicator
Durability
- IP54 Dust, sweat, and water-resistant (AirPods and Charging Case)
AirPods Max in New Colors
Apple announced five new colors for the AirPods Max: midnight, starlight, blue, orange, and purple. The updated models also come with USB-C charging capabilities.
New Hearing Health Features for AirPods Pro 2
Apple also unveiled new hearing health features for the AirPods Pro 2. These features build on Apple’s ongoing efforts in hearing health and provide a comprehensive experience focusing on prevention, awareness, and assistance.
Prevention
The new “Loud Sound Reduction” feature helps protect users from exposure to loud environmental noise while preserving the sound quality of the audio they are listening to.
The feature reduces louder noise at 48,000 times per second and employs a multiband high dynamic range algorithm to ensure sounds like those at concerts remain natural and vibrant.
Awareness
Apple is introducing a new Hearing Test feature, allowing users to check their hearing at home using a compatible iPhone or iPad. The test uses a standard clinical approach called pure-tone audiometry and generates a personalized hearing profile stored securely in the Health app.
Assistance
AirPods Pro now includes an over-the-counter Hearing Aid capability for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
This feature utilizes the user’s personalized hearing profile to provide real-time sound adjustments, enhancing conversations and interactions. The feature supports music, movies, games, and phone calls across devices.
Apple plans to release the Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features in over 100 countries this fall, pending authorization from global health authorities.
Environmental Impact
Apple underscores its environmental commitment by using 100% recycled rare earth elements, gold, tin, and aluminum in the new AirPods 4 design.
Additionally, the packaging is now 100% fiber-based, supporting Apple’s goal of eliminating plastic from packaging by 2025 and reducing its volume by over 30%.
Pricing and Availability
- AirPods 4: Rs. 12,900
- AirPods 4 with ANC: Rs. 17,900
- AirPods Max with USB-C Charging: Rs. 59,900
- AirPods Pro 2: Rs. 24,900, with new hearing health features arriving this fall via a free software update when paired with an iPhone or iPad running iOS 18 or iPadOS 18.
AirPods 4 and AirPods Max are available for pre-order starting today, with in-store availability beginning on Friday, September 20.
New customers can get three months of Apple Music for free with any AirPods purchase. For full functionality, users should pair the AirPods with an Apple device running the latest software. AppleCare+ is also available for additional support and protection.