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Apple Launches AirPods 5 With ANC and Lower Prices

It shifts Pro-style multiport acoustics and IP57 water resistance into Apple’s mainstream earbuds to create a new value tier for buyers.

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Does any reason remain to pick up the old AirPods 4 (pictured right)?

Overview

  • Apple made the AirPods 5 available on Sept. 18 in two models priced at $129 for the base USB-C case version and $149 for the wireless-charging model.
  • Both AirPods 5 models include active noise cancellation that Apple says delivers about 1.5 times the ANC power of the prior AirPods 4 with ANC.
  • The lineup adopts a Pro-inspired multiport acoustic architecture to improve adaptive EQ and sound, and adds Live Translation and improved Transparency mode.
  • The higher-end AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case adds one extra hour of ANC battery life (five hours total with ANC), on-stem volume controls and wireless charging.
  • Retailers opened with modest launch discounts—Amazon listed the base pair at about $124.99—and concurrent deals on the AirPods Pro 3 mean buyers must weigh lower-priced ANC against the Pro model’s stronger ANC, longer battery and extra sensors while independent lab reviews are still pending.