Over the last several months, there's been a lot chatter about Apple releasing two -- and possibly even three -- new AirPods models alongside the new iPhone 16 series at its annual fall iPhone event. Well, now it's official: Apple has unveiled two AirPods 4, both of which feature an open design and are the successor to the AirPods 3. The step-up model has active noise-canceling, a feature not typically found in open earbuds.
The AirPods 4 are available for pre-order now for $129 and $179 respectively and ship on Sept 20.
The AirPods 4 come in two version for $129 and $179 respectively.
David Carnoy/CNETThe AirPods 4 have not only been slightly redesigned to fit more ears securely, but they're equipped with USB-C charging and Apple's more advanced H2 chip. That same chip powers the AirPods Pro 2 and enables such features as Conversation Awareness 2, Siri Interactions, Head Gestures and Voice Isolation that are coming with iOS 18.
Apple also says the sound quality has improved thanks to a new acoustic architecture along with the more powerful digital processing capabilities of the H2 chip.
New AirPods 4 features.
David Carnoy/CNETThe last few years rumor had it that Apple was planning on releasing less-expensive noise canceling earbuds. The AirPods Pro 2 list for $249 but usually sell for $200 or less at Amazon and other other online retailers. The AirPods 4 with active noise canceling list for $179 but are not exactly what we're expecting. That's because they feature an open design, which typically doesn't work well for active noise canceling. So we're very curious to see how well that noise canceling works. Stay tuned for some hands-on first impressions.
You can watch Apple's annual event here, or follow along for updates on CNET's live blog.
Apple AirPods 4 key features, according to Apple
- Upgraded design with more ergonomic fit for a wider range of ears
- Powered by Apple's H2 chip
- Improved sund quality
- USB-C and wireless charging
- Smallest AirPods charging case to date
- Price: $129 and $179 (for active noise canceling model)
- Ship date: Sept. 20