GoKawiilFor months, rumor had it that Apple was going to release a new version of its AirPods Pro equipped with tiny IR cameras designed to power new Siri AI visual intelligence features and perhaps recognize hand gestures like Apple’s Vision Pro headset does. While those AirPods may materialize in 2027, at this year’s Surprise and Shine event Apple instead announced new versions of its standard AirPods, the AirPods 5, with both featuring improved active noise canceling. The step-up model supports wireless charging and has better battery life along with volume controls on its stems. Available for preorder today, they cost $129 and $149, and ship Sept. 18.
I always expected the AirPods 5 to arrive this year, as Apple tends to follow a two-year refresh cycle for its AirPods models. But like a lot of other people I wondered whether they would be the first AirPods with Apple’s new H3 chip. That does not appear to be the case.
The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation were something of a technological marvel. ANC is a rare feature for open earbuds because it typically doesn’t work with an open design. As I said in my review, while the AirPods 4’s ANC isn’t that great compared with the AirPods Pro 3 and other top noise-canceling earbuds from Bose and Sony, the fact that it works at all and is reasonably effective is kind of wild. And now Apple says it’s 50% more effective.
Like its predecessor, the entry-level AirPods 5’s case does not support wireless charging while the step-up model’s case does. However, the entry model active noise canceling for the same price of $129. Aside from the wireless charging case, the biggest difference between the two models is battery life. The entry-level model is rated for 4 of battery life with noise canceling on at moderate volume levels while the step-up model offers up to 5 hours. Also, as noted, the step model has volume controls on the stem like the AirPods Pro 3 does. Apple also says the transparency mode for both models has been improved and sounds more natrual.
This is a developing story. Check back soon for updates.