Overview

• Hands-on tests report a clear step up in active noise cancellation, with reviewers noting quieter flights and office hum reduced to a near hush.
• A new in-ear optical sensor tracks heart rate during workouts and feeds data to the iPhone Fitness app across more than 50 exercise types.
• Foam‑infused silicone tips, including a new XXS size, aim for a deeper seal and stability, and both buds and case now carry an IP57 rating.
• Reviewers hear a tighter, more expressive soundstage that narrows the gap with AirPods Max, though Bluetooth codec support remains limited to AAC.
• Shopping guidance stresses AirPods 4 as the value pick with optional $50 ANC, while Pro 3 target top-tier ANC and health features, and post-launch deals include refurbished AirPods Pro 2 around $139.