Overview

• The in‑ear optical heart‑rate sensor enables workout tracking without an Apple Watch, syncs data to the Health app, and exposes APIs so fitness apps and gyms can use the readings.
• Near‑real‑time translation runs via Apple Intelligence with transcripts on a paired iPhone, launching with English, German, French, Portuguese and Spanish, with more languages due by year’s end.
• Apple claims stronger active noise cancellation—about twice the AirPods Pro 2 level—alongside improved sound, foam‑reinforced tips in five sizes, a refined fit, and an IP57 dust‑ and water‑resistance rating.
• Battery life rises to up to 8 hours per earbud with roughly 24 hours from the case, which adds a U2 locator chip and supports USB‑C, MagSafe and Apple Watch charging.
• Preorders opened September 9 with retail availability on September 19 at $249 in the US (€249 in Germany), while independent tests will evaluate Apple’s audio and ANC claims.