At its annual fall event, Apple introduced several new products, including the iPhone 16 series and Watch Series 10. One of the highlights was the launch of the AirPods 4, a long-awaited upgrade to the AirPods 3 that debuted in 2021. This time, Apple released two distinct models: a budget-friendly entry-level version and a more feature-rich regular model.
Familiar Design with Improvements
The AirPods 4 maintain the signature semi-in-ear stem design and silicone ear tips of their predecessors, ensuring a comfortable fit for most users. Both models are IPX4-rated, making them water-resistant for sweat and light splashes. The touch-sensitive stems allow for various controls, and now, users can also interact with Siri or respond to calls by nodding or shaking their heads for yes or no, adding a more intuitive layer to the user experience.
Enhanced Audio and Personalized Features
For sound quality, the AirPods 4 come with Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, delivering an immersive listening experience. The key difference between the two models is that the budget version lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which is reserved for the higher-end model. The premium AirPods 4 offer features previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro, including ANC, Transparency Mode, and Adaptive Audio. These features allow users to fine-tune their listening experience based on their environment, offering more choices depending on individual needs and preferences.
Both models are powered by the H2 chip, which enhances battery efficiency, accelerates pairing, and customizes the listening experience in real-time. The H2 chip also supports new features like faster switching between Apple devices and personalized audio experiences.
Longer Battery Life and USB-C Support
Battery life has been a major focus for the AirPods 4. Both models offer up to 30 hours of playback with the charging case, which now supports wireless charging. A single charge provides 6.5 hours of usage. Apple has also moved to a USB-C charging port, completing its transition to the universal standard across all its devices.
New Features and Smarter Controls
The AirPods 4 come with several new functionalities, including Find My integration, a revamped charging case with a built-in speaker for alerts, and seamless audio switching between Apple devices. The Conversational Mode, exclusive to the ANC model, automatically lowers the volume when you’re talking to someone, making interactions more natural without needing to remove the earbuds.
| Model/Specs | AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 ANC |
| Features | Personalized Spatial Audio, IPX4 water resistance, 30 hours battery life, wireless charging, Find My | Personalized Spatial Audio, IPX4 water resistance, 30 hours battery life, wireless charging, Find My |
| Chip | H2, Voice Isolation, Hey Siri, Siri Interactions | H2, Voice Isolation, Hey Siri, Siri Interactions |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | No | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | No | Yes |
| Adaptive Audio | No | Yes |
| Case | Charging Case , USB Type C | Wireless Charging Case USB Type C with Speaker for Finy My |
| IPX4 | Dust, Sweat and Water Resistant | Dust, Sweat and Water Resistant |
| Price | $129 | $179 |
Pricing and Availability
The entry-level AirPods 4 model is priced at $129, while the mid-tier version, which includes ANC and other premium features, carries a price tag of $179, the same as the previous AirPods 3. Pre-orders start today, with sales beginning on September 20.
