Need some new AirPods? It’s a good idea to wait.
If your current AirPods are in need of refresh it’s a good idea to wait just a few more days before splashing the cash. Apple has just confirmed that some new music makers are coming very soon (Friday, September 20 to be exact) and they’ll make what is currently available in stores look very outdated.
The new AirPods 4, which were announced at last week’s iPhone 16 launch event, offer a swathe of improvements over previous versions.
There’s a new compact design – which looks more subtle when placed in the ear – along with a case that’s also been reduced in size – it’s more than 10% smaller in volume than before.
They also get the latest H2 chip inside which brings improved Voice Isolation for better calls, simple Siri commands (you can shake your head to say yes or no to this personal assistant) along with low wireless audio latency making them great for gamers.
Anyone who spends all day with buds stuffed in their head will also be pleased to hear that the new AirPods have been designed with comfort in mind.
Apple says the new design is built with an unparalleled data set that uses advanced modeling tools, like 3D photogrammetry and laser topography, to precisely map and analyse thousands of ear shapes and over 50 million individual data points in total. This process helped refine the design what Apple reckons will be the “most comfortable AirPods ever”.
Battery life is also pretty impressive with over 23 hours of playtime without needing to go near a plug.
The standard model starts from £129 – that’s the same price as the older AirPods Gen 2 model – but there is also a version of the AirPods 4 that gets Active Noise Cancellation as well. This means owners will hear more of their music and less of the background sound around them.
For those times when it’s vital to hear noise – when at an airport for example – there’s a Transparency mode to keep users aware of their environment. The ANC version of the AirPods 4 cost £179.
Other extras coming to the new AirPods include an in-built speaker in case to help you track them down in the Find My app (ANC model only) and all version get Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking for more immersive sound.
They get USB-C and wireless charging to make it quick and easy to give things a refill and simple controls on each bud let you pause and play music along with turning the ANC off.
“With AirPods 4, customers can enjoy Active Noise Cancellation and the most advanced audio experience ever in an open-ear design,” said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering.
You’ll find the AirPods 4 in stores later this week.
