If you need new AirPods, we recommend waiting a few more days before taking the plunge. Apple has just confirmed the launch of new wireless headphones that will change the way they look and sound. The all-new AirPods 4 feature a sleek design, a long 24-hour battery life, and improved sound thanks to a completely new acoustic architecture, a low-distortion driver, and a high dynamic range amplifier.
They also have the latest H2 chip inside, which brings improved sound isolation for better phone calls and simple Siri commands. (you can shake your head to say no to this personal assistant) and low latency wireless audio makes them great for gamers.
The charging case now features USB-C instead of Apple’s Lightning connector, and is more than 10 percent smaller than its predecessor.
Apple also promises a very comfortable fit for all users. The price of the standard model is £129, but there is also a version of the AirPods 4 that also has active noise cancellation. This means owners can hear more of their music and less background noise around them.
For those times when hearing noise is important – for example at the airport – Transparency mode is available to keep users aware of their surroundings. The ANC version of the AirPods 4 cost £179.
These new buds aren’t the only updates from Apple. The US company has also revealed new AirPods Max over-ear cans, which now come in new colors and get USB-C charging.
Finally, if you own the latest AirPods Pro 2, a free update will be released to help improve your hearing health.
Loud Sound Reduction actively helps reduce louder and intermittent noise 48,000 times per second.
Then there’s the new hearing test feature, which allows users to quickly check their hearing in the comfort of their own home in minutes. The results can then be shared with the doctor.
“With AirPods 4, customers can enjoy active noise cancellation and the most advanced audio experience ever in an over-ear design,” said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of hardware engineering.
“And a revolutionary update to the world’s best-selling headphones, AirPods Pro offers ground-breaking new features – including hearing test and hearing aid capabilities – to help more than a billion people with hearing loss.”