Apple today unveiled its new AirPods 5 earbuds. Apple’s new entry-level wireless earbus offer improved Active Noise Cancellation at a starting price of $129.
Apple says AirPods 5 remove up to 50% more external noise than the model it is replacing, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. Apple says a redesigned acoustic architecture and updated Adaptive EQ also promise richer, more detailed sound, and an improved Transparency mode that makes nearby voices and sounds more natural.
AirPods 5 feature an improved Transparency mode that more naturally represents voices and nearby sounds, helping users stay connected to their surroundings. Providing the best of both worlds, Adaptive Audio dynamically blends Transparency mode and ANC based on the conditions of a user’s environment. And Conversation Awareness lowers the user’s media volume when they start speaking, helping them more easily talk to someone nearby.
“We’re thrilled that with AirPods 5, we’re able to bring Active Noise Cancellation — one of our most beloved features — to our most affordable AirPods,” said Dave Pakula, Apple’s vice president of Hardware Engineering. “Both AirPods 5 models deliver a world-class listening experience and enable features like Live Translation for even more people. Paired with Siri AI, AirPods are a game changer for unlocking powerful hands-free capabilities.”
A $149 version is also available. It adds a Wireless Charging Case, as well as swipe-based volume controls on the stems and extended battery life. Apple says this model delivers up to five hours of listening with noise cancellation enabled, or up to 22 hours with the case, which can be charged via an Apple Watch or Qi chargers, in addition to USB-C.
AirPods 5 are available to preorder today, with availability beginning Friday, September 18.
