CUPERTINO (The Thursday Times) — Apple today revealed its latest innovations in the AirPods lineup, introducing the highly anticipated AirPods 4, new color options for AirPods Max, and industry-first hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2.
The new AirPods 4 bring a completely redesigned open-ear structure, with two models available: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). AirPods Max now feature five fresh colors—midnight, starlight, blue, purple, and orange—and support USB-C charging for added convenience. Most notably, AirPods Pro 2 will debut an all-in-one hearing health experience this fall, offering features such as Active Hearing Protection, a scientifically validated Hearing Test, and a clinical-grade Hearing Aid.
“AirPods 4 delivers the best audio experience in an open-ear design,” said John Ternus, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. “And with revolutionary updates to AirPods Pro, we are introducing powerful new hearing health tools to support the more than a billion people affected by hearing loss.”
AirPods 4 represent the most advanced wireless earphones Apple has ever created, featuring a new fit developed from analysing over 50 million individual ear data points. Their enhanced design offers improved comfort and sound quality, including a low-distortion driver and high-dynamic-range amplifier. Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking ensures an immersive media experience. Equipped with the H2 chip, AirPods 4 deliver intelligent audio features, including Voice Isolation for clearer calls and intuitive Siri interactions, such as nodding or shaking your head to respond to prompts.
AirPods 4 also come with a more compact charging case supporting USB-C charging, boasting up to 30 hours of battery life, while the ANC model offers additional charging options through Apple Watch and Qi-certified chargers.
In addition to stunning new colors, AirPods Max now support USB-C charging, making them easier than ever to power up whether at home or on the go.
Building on its leadership in hearing health innovation, Apple is launching new hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2. This includes Active Hearing Protection, which automatically reduces loud environmental sounds, a Hearing Test that uses pure-tone audiometry to assess hearing levels, and a clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. The Hearing Aid feature provides dynamic real-time adjustments to boost speech and environmental sounds, enhancing everyday interactions. These groundbreaking features are expected to be available in over 100 countries, starting this fall.
As part of Apple’s commitment to sustainability, AirPods 4 incorporate 100% recycled rare earth elements and gold in various components, while the packaging is made entirely from fiber-based materials, helping Apple reach its goal of eliminating plastic from packaging by 2025.
Customers can pre-order AirPods 4 starting today, with prices beginning at $129 (U.S.) and availability on September 20. AirPods 4 with ANC are priced at $179 (U.S.), and AirPods Max are available for $549 (U.S.). New hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2 will roll out this fall via a free software update.
