Apple Launches AirPods 4 with ANC & USB-C: AirPods Pro 2 Gets Health-Centric Updates

At Apple's recent "Glowtime" event, the company unveiled its latest wireless earbuds, the AirPods 4, offering significant upgrades to its popular line of wearables. The new models introduce features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to the base AirPods and offer improved sound quality through the use of Apple's H2 chip.

The event also showcased a shift to USB-C charging for both the AirPods and AirPods Max, aligning Apple's audio products with its broader ecosystem updates.

Two AirPods 4 Models: Price and Availability

Apple released two versions of the AirPods 4: one with ANC and one without. In the U.S., the standard AirPods 4 are priced at $129, while the ANC-equipped version costs $179. These earbuds are available for pre-order starting today, with shipments expected to begin on September 20.

In India, the standard version is priced at ₹12,900, and the ANC version costs ₹17,900. Customers who purchase either model will also receive three months of complimentary Apple Music access.

Design and Charging Upgrades

The AirPods 4 feature a redesigned look aimed at offering a more comfortable fit, with replaceable ear tips that cater to different ear sizes. A major change in both versions of the AirPods 4 is the shift from Apple's proprietary Lightning connector to a USB-C charging port.

This shift ensures faster and more universal charging options, aligning with Apple's recent device updates. Additionally, both models support wireless charging, and the higher-end version includes a charging case with built-in speakers for enhanced integration with Apple's Find My app.

Key Features: Active Noise Cancellation and Spatial Audio

The most notable addition to the AirPods 4 is the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation in the higher-end model, previously a feature exclusive to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. ANC enables users to block out ambient noise, enhancing their listening experience in noisy environments. Both models also offer personalized spatial audio, powered by Apple's H2 chip, which adjusts the sound based on the shape of the user's ears for a more immersive experience.

Other advanced features include voice isolation, which improves call clarity by focusing on the user's voice, and gesture controls powered by machine learning. For instance, users can simply nod to answer a call or shake their head to decline. Siri voice commands are also supported, offering hands-free convenience.

Battery Life and Audio Performance

Apple claims that the AirPods 4 provide up to 30 hours of battery life with the charging case, making them some of the longest-lasting earbuds in the market. The H2 chip promises enhanced sound quality, which is a significant step up from earlier generations, delivering richer bass and more defined mids and highs.

Additionally, the AirPods 4 support adaptive audio, which dynamically adjusts volume levels based on surrounding noise, offering a seamless listening experience.

AirPods Max and AirPods Pro Updates

In addition to the AirPods 4, Apple introduced new color options for the AirPods Max, including Midnight, Blue, Purple, Orange, and Starlight. The over-the-ear headphones have also been updated to include USB-C charging and support personalized spatial audio, which will be fully functional with the release of iOS 18.

Apple has also made updates to the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), integrating health-focused features such as a built-in hearing test. The AirPods Pro now support hearing aid capabilities, and the new Noise app provides users with options to create a personalized hearing profile.