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The wait is over, on September 9th, Apple finally gave us the AirPods 4, alongside the iPhone 16, AirPods Max and more!
Here’s everything you need to know about this new bit of Apple tech.
Are There Two Versions of AirPods 4?
Yep.
From the outside, the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) look identical, but there are significant differences between them.
Here’s a table comparing the Apple AirPods 4 with the AirPods 4 ANC:
| Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Identical to ANC model | Identical to non-ANC model |
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Not included | Included |
| Adaptive Audio | Not included | Included |
| Transparency Mode | Not included | Included |
| Conversation Awareness | Not included | Included |
| Battery Life | 5 hours of listening time. Standard charging case; fewer hours | 5 hours of listening time with 4 for ANC. Wireless charging case; up to 30 hours |
| Charging Options | USB-C cable | USB-C, Qi wireless charging, Apple Watch charger |
| Ideal Use Environment | Quieter spaces | Noisy environments |
| Price | $129 | $179 |
| Best For | General listening | Enhanced experience, situational awareness, and noise control |
The AirPods 4 with ANC offer more advanced features for a slightly higher price, while the standard AirPods 4 are more budget-friendly for general use.
Design details
The design of the AirPods 4 is very similar to the previous models but with a narrower oval grille opening and smaller charging case.
Here’s a little more detail on their design:
A Comfy Fit
Using 50 million data points, Apple claims the AirPods 4 is an accurate representation of the average human ear. This ensures a snug and comfortable fit, eliminating the common issues of earbuds constantly slipping or feeling uncomfortable during extended use.
Compact and Portable
The AirPods 4 also boast a smaller charging case, making them even more portable and convenient to carry around. Despite the reduced size, Apple has managed to maintain a total battery life of up to 30 hours.
Audio Technology
AirPods 4 has a powerful boost over the previous models. Here’s why:
The H2 Chip
At the heart of the AirPods 4 is Apple’s latest H2 chip, which brings a host of new capabilities to the table. From enhanced sound quality and personalized Spatial Audio to improved voice isolation and low latency.
Adaptive Audio and Noise Cancellation
The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation include advanced audio features.
Adaptive Audio automatically adjusts the strength of the noise cancellation based on the surrounding environment. With the Transparency mode, you can seamlessly switch between blocking out the world and amplifying ambient sounds, making it easier to engage in conversations without removing the earbuds.
Personalized Spatial Audio
One of the standout features of the AirPods 4 is the integration of Personalized Spatial Audio. By leveraging the TrueDepth camera on compatible Apple devices, the earbuds can create a personalized audio profile that adapts to the unique shape of your ears.
Intuitive Controls and Connectivity
They also boast a suite of intuitive controls and seamless connectivity features.
Controls
The AirPods 4 features a force sensor that allows you to easily control your music, answer calls, and interact with Siri with a simple squeeze or nod of your head.
Connectivity
You can pair your AirPods 4 with Apple devices using Bluetooth 5.3 technology. And the H2 chip’s efficiency helps to ensure uninterrupted connection.
How to connect AirPods to your Apple watch, iPhone, iPad and Max explained HERE.
Hands-Free Siri
The AirPods 4 now allows you to summon Siri with just the sound of your voice. This is great for when you want to set a reminder, get directions, or control your smart home devices.
Durability and Water Resistance
The AirPods 4 are built to withstand the rigors of everyday life.
Sweat and Water Resistant
The AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are both rated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance, making them a great companion for an active lifestyle.
Battery Life and Charging
Here’s a table comparing the battery life of the AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation and AirPods Pro 2:
| Feature | AirPods 4 | AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening Time (Single Charge) | Up to 5 hours | Up to 4 hours (with Active Noise Cancellation) Up to 5 hours (with noise control off) | Up to 6 hours (up to 5.5 hours with Spatial Audio and Head Tracking) |
| Charging Case | USB-C | USB-C | MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C) |
| Listening Time (With Charging Case) | Up to 30 hours | Up to 30 hours Up to 20 hours with Active Noise Cancellation enabled | Up to 30 hours |
| 5-Minute Charge Time | Around 1 hour of listening or 45 minutes of talk time | Around 1 hour of listening or 45 minutes of talk time | Around 1 hour of listening or 1 hour of talk time |
| Listening Time with Noise Control Off | – | Up to 5 hours | Up to 30 hours |
| Active Noise Cancellation Enabled Listening Time | – | Up to 20 hours | – |
What is AirPods 4 Battery life?
The standard AirPods 4 offer up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge, while the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation can last up to 4 hours with the feature enabled. And when you factor in the charging case, the total battery life is 30 hours.
Are AirPods 4 Easy to charge?
Charging the AirPods 4 is easy, with the case supporting USB-C, wireless charging, and even Apple Watch chargers.
With 5 minutes of charging, you can get around an hour of listening time.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
AirPods 4 have some interesting accessibility features:
Accessibility Features
The AirPods 4 comes with various accessibility features, including Live Listen audio, Headphone Accommodations, and Headphone Levels. These tools ensure that users with various hearing needs can fully enjoy the audio experience.
Inclusive Design
By carefully analyzing over 50 million data points, Apple has designed the AirPods 4 to be a comfortable and secure fit for the vast majority of users. This commitment to inclusivity means that everyone can enjoy the benefits of these earbuds.
Sustainability and the Environment
Eco-Friendly Materials
The AirPods 4 are crafted with a focus on sustainability, with components made from recycled materials such as tin, gold, copper, and rare earth elements. The packaging is 100% fiber-based, minimizing the use of plastic.
Energy Efficiency
The AirPods 4 have been designed to meet the stringent energy efficiency standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy, ensuring they consume power responsibly and contribute to a greener future. Whatever that means.
When will AirPods 4 be available to buy, and for how much?
The AirPods 4 are now available for pre-order, with the standard model priced at $129 and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation retailing for $179. Both variants will begin shipping on September 20th.
Comparison to Previous AirPods Models
Now that we’ve explored the features and capabilities of the AirPods 4, let’s take a closer look at how they stack up against their predecessors.
AirPods 3 vs. AirPods 4
The AirPods 4 bring a host of improvements over the AirPods 3, including a more comfortable and secure fit, enhanced audio quality, and the addition of Active Noise Cancellation in the higher-end model.
While the AirPods 3 were a solid offering, the AirPods 4 are a vast improvement. You can check out our full comparison between the two here.
AirPods 4 vs. AirPods Pro 2
We have had a look at the differences in battery life and charging for these models in the table above, but here’s a little more info:
For those seeking the ultimate in noise control and audio fidelity, the AirPods Pro 2 still reign supreme. However, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation offer a compelling alternative, delivering impressive noise-blocking capabilities and personalized Spatial Audio at a more accessible price point.
