Apple has announced a groundbreaking update to its AirPods lineup, introducing a brand-new design for AirPods 4, expanding color options for AirPods Max, and introducing groundbreaking hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2.
AirPods 4: A New Era in Open-Ear Design
The all-new AirPods 4 represent the most advanced and comfortable headphones Apple has ever created. They boast an open-ear design, deviating from the traditional in-ear style, and come in two distinct models: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). This allows users to choose between increased comfort and noise-canceling functionality.
The design of AirPods 4 has been meticulously crafted based on an extensive dataset and advanced modeling tools. This data analysis, encompassing over 50 million data points and thousands of ear shapes, ensures an optimal fit for a wider range of users.
Unparalleled Sound Quality and Advanced Features
AirPods 4 deliver a massive leap in sound quality with a completely new acoustic architecture, low-distortion drivers, and a high dynamic range amplifier. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking further enhances the audio experience, immersing users in their media.
The H2 chip unlocks intelligent features like Voice Isolation, enabling crystal-clear call quality in any environment. Additionally, users can simply nod their head “yes” or shake their head “no” to respond to Siri announcements with Siri Interactions. A force sensor on the stem allows users to play/pause media and control calls.
AirPods 4 cater to gamers as well, with low wireless audio latency and excellent voice quality for chatting with teammates. They also support 16-bit, 48kHz audio. For added convenience, the charging case now features USB-C charging capabilities and is smaller than its predecessor, while still delivering up to 30 hours of battery life.
AirPods 4 with ANC: Open-Ear Comfort Meets Noise Cancellation
For the first time ever, AirPods 4 introduce ANC to an open-ear design. Upgraded microphones, the H2 chip’s processing power, and advanced computational audio work together to reduce unwanted environmental noise like airplane engines and city traffic in the AirPods 4 with ANC model.
Intelligent features like Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio (which dynamically adjusts ANC based on the environment), and Conversation Awareness further enhance the user experience with AirPods 4 with ANC.
AirPods Max Get a Colorful Upgrade
AirPods Max are now available in five stunning new colors – midnight, starlight, blue, orange, and purple. These new finishes complement other Apple products like Mac and iPad. Additionally, AirPods Max now feature USB-C charging for increased convenience.
AirPods Pro 2: A First-of-its-Kind Hearing Health Experience
Approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide struggle with hearing loss according to the World Health Organization. Building on its existing work in hearing health through features like the Noise app, headphone audio levels on iPhone, and the Apple Hearing Study, Apple introduces an all-encompassing hearing health experience with AirPods Pro 2.
Prevention
A new Loud Sound Reduction feature combats potentially harmful exposure to loud environmental noise levels. This feature works by passively reducing noise through the ear tips while actively reducing louder, more intermittent noise with the H2 chip.
Awareness
AirPods Pro 2 now include a scientifically validated Hearing Test. This test, conducted entirely through the device and paired iPhone or iPad, allows users to easily check their hearing within minutes from the comfort of their own homes.
Assistance
Building on the personalized hearing profile generated by the Hearing Test, AirPods Pro 2 introduce an innovative Hearing Aid feature for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. This feature transforms AirPods Pro into a clinical-grade hearing aid, automatically adjusting sounds in real time based on the user’s profile. This allows users to better engage in conversations and stay connected to their surroundings.
Better for the Environment
Apple prioritizes environmental responsibility in its AirPods design. The new AirPods 4 utilize recycled materials in various components, including 100% recycled rare earth elements in magnets and 100% recycled gold in plating. The packaging is also crafted from 100% fiber-based materials, contributing to Apple’s goal of eliminating plastic packaging by 2025.
Pricing and Availability
AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC are available for pre-order starting today, with availability beginning September 20th. The Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features for AirPods Pro 2 will be available as a free software update this fall in over 100 countries and regions.
This press release provides a comprehensive overview of Apple’s latest AirPods lineup, highlighting the groundbreaking hearing health features introduced with AirPods Pro 2. It emphasizes the enhanced comfort, sound quality, and functionality of AirPods 4,