Apple launches AirPods 5 with 50% stronger noise cancellation
Apple unveiled new AirPods 5 earbuds at its Surprise and Shine event, offering two models priced at $129 and $149 with improved active noise canceling that Apple says is 50% more effective than the previous generation. The pricier model adds wireless charging, longer battery life, and stem-based volume controls, while both ship September 18 and are available for preorder now.
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This release confirms Apple's roughly two-year AirPods refresh cycle continues, but it also signals that rumored features like IR cameras for Siri visual intelligence and gesture controls have been pushed back, likely to 2027. The improved noise canceling on an open-earbud design remains a notable engineering feat, since ANC typically struggles without a sealed fit, keeping Apple competitive against Bose and Sony in the budget earbud segment.
- Two new AirPods 5 models launch at $129 and $149, shipping September 18
- Noise cancellation is 50% more effective than AirPods 4, despite the open-ear design
- Rumored IR camera and gesture-recognition features may not arrive until 2027
Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation — The article calls the AirPods 4 with ANC a technological marvel for pulling off active noise canceling in an open-ear design, and they remain Apple's current standard-fit earbuds. They keep the classic no-tip AirPods comfort while adding noise reduction, Transparency mode and seamless pairing across your iPhone, iPad and Mac.
See Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: cnet.com — David Carnoy, 2026-09-09
Published there as: “Apple Introduces New AirPods 5 With Improved Noise Canceling”
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