Apple AirPods 4: Revolutionary Open-Ear ANC, H2 Chip, and IP54 Rating Redefine Wireless Audio

Apple Unveils AirPods 4: A Leap Forward in Open-Ear Design

Apple has officially launched the highly anticipated AirPods 4, marking a significant upgrade from its predecessors and introducing active noise cancellation (ANC) to its open-ear design for the first time. The new earbuds come in two versions, both featuring improved sound quality and a range of enhancements that promise to elevate the listening experience for Apple users.

The AirPods 4 maintain a familiar appearance, with subtle refinements to the shape and contours for a more secure fit. The charging case has been slightly reduced in size and now features a USB-C connector, aligning with Apple’s move towards universal charging standards. As with previous models, the AirPods 4 are available exclusively in white.

Internally, both versions of the AirPods 4 are powered by Apple’s latest H2 chip, which delivers enhanced sound quality and improved voice call clarity. The earbuds also boast an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, adding durability to their list of features.

The standout feature of the premium model is the inclusion of ANC, a first for Apple’s open-style earbuds. While the effectiveness of ANC in this design may not match that of sealed in-ear models, it is expected to significantly reduce lower-frequency noises, potentially improving listening experiences in various environments.

Additional features exclusive to the premium model include Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and wireless charging compatibility with MagSafe and Qi-compatible chargers. A built-in speaker for use with the Find My app is also included.

Sound quality has seen notable improvements across both models, with enhanced bass response and better instrument separation. Apple claims the sound profile is identical between the regular and ANC versions.

New capabilities include head gestures for Siri interaction and a Voice Isolation feature for voice calls. The AirPods 4 also retain seamless integration with other Apple devices, though true multipoint support remains absent.

Battery life is rated at four hours with ANC enabled and five hours without, with the charging case providing additional power for a total of 20 to 30 hours of use.

The AirPods 4 are priced at $129 for the base model and $179 for the premium version with ANC. While the standard model offers a substantial upgrade over the second-generation AirPods, the additional features of the premium version may justify the $50 price difference for many users.

With these new offerings, Apple aims to solidify its position in the competitive wireless earbud market, providing users with enhanced features and improved performance in its signature open-ear design.