AirPods 5 with improved noise cancellation
Like the predecessor, the AirPods 5 are available in two variants. The cheapest model has caught up in important features but has not become more expensive.
(Image: Apple)
Apple has updated its most affordable in-ear headphones. As with the AirPods 4 released in 2024, there are two variants: an entry-level model and a better variant with built-in volume control, a MagSafe-compatible charging case, and longer battery life. For the first time, however, the affordable model also offers active noise cancellation. Both have an open design and do without silicone pads that seal the ear canal.
Volume control and better ANC
The new earphones do not look different from before. Inside the short stem is a pressure sensor for operation, and the microphone is at the end. The more expensive version supports a swipe gesture that, as with the AirPods Pro, allows you to switch noise control. The AirPods 5 have a white, rounded plastic housing that is protected against dust, rain, and sweat with an IP57 rating.
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According to Apple, the noise cancellation should work 50 percent more effectively than with the AirPods 4. A new acoustic design is intended to improve sound and enable more dynamics, among other things. The AirPods 5 continue to rely on Bluetooth 5.3 and Apple’s H2 chip.
AirPods 5 (4 Bilder)
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Live translation for the entry-level model
For the first time in both versions, the AirPods 5 support the Live Translation function, which translates conversations for the wearer in near real time. This means the translation function is now available across the entire AirPods lineup. As before, the earphones offer Spatial Audio with head tracking for 3D sound playback.
The difference lies in the charging case
The battery life for the entry-level model is said to be up to four hours on a single charge. If you recharge in the charging case, Apple claims a total of 20 hours. The higher-end variant can achieve five hours or 22 hours with the charging case, respectively. Both figures refer to music playback with ANC activated.
The case is charged via USB-C. With the better model, this can also be done wirelessly via Qi, Apple’s MagSafe, or the Apple Watch charger. The inductive charging case has a small speaker. If you locate the earphones via Apple’s Find My network using the app, you can play a search tone through it. An Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, which allows searching with directional arrows via the app in the final meters, is still only available with the AirPods Pro. No cable is included with either variant.
Prices and availability
The AirPods 5 can be pre-ordered starting September 9. The entry-level variant with a simple USB-C charging case costs 149 euros, and the model with volume control and an inductive charging case costs 169 euros. Both are expected to go on sale on September 18th.
(hze)
