Apple has confirmed the launch of its AirPods 4 line up, the “most advanced and comfortable headphones Apple has ever created”.
The new AirPods host an open-ear design, and there are two versions to choose from – the standard AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
Predictions on the new AirPod line up and what it would entail began making headlines last month, with estimations on an “advanced model” with ANC now confirmed to be official.
There are also some extra launches though which weren’t widely predicted, with Apple now also confirming a slight upgrade for its AirPods Max – these now come in midnight, starlight, blue, purple, and orange, and offer USB-C charging.
This autumn, its AirPods Pro 2 will also introduce the “world’s first” end-to-end hearing health experience, delivering active Hearing Protection, a scientifically validated Hearing Test, and a clinical-grade Hearing Aid feature. More on this later.
AirPods 4 – What’s New?
First, let’s dive into the AirPods 4. According to the tech giant, their new design has been built with an “unparalleled data set” that used advanced modelling 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.
AirPods 4 also feature a new acoustic architecture, low-distortion driver, and high dynamic range amplifier. Additionally, there’s Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking too.
There’s also Voice Isolation, enabling clearer call quality, and improved Siri Interactions, allowing users to nod or shake their head yes or no to respond to announcements. A new force sensor on the stem now lets you play or pause media and mute or end calls as well.
As for the ANC version, these AirPods mark the first time such technology has been introduced to an open-ear design. The ANC helps to reduce external noise and hosts intelligent features like Transparency mode to keep users aware of their environment; Adaptive Audio, which dynamically blends Transparency mode and ANC based on the conditions of a user’s environment; and Conversation Awareness, which lowers the user’s media volume when they start speaking to someone nearby.
AirPods Pro 2 – Hearing Protection and Testing
According to an Apple study, one in three people are regularly exposed to loud environmental noise levels that can impact their hearing. As a result, Apple has brought Hearing Protection to AirPods Pro 2.
Essentially, the ear tips on this model help to provide passive noise reduction, while a H2 chip helps to actively reduce louder, more intermittent noise at 48,000 times per second. With a new multiband high dynamic range algorithm, sounds at live events like concerts however, remain “natural and vibrant”.
The accompanying interactive Hearing Test feature utilises a standard clinical approach called pure-tone audiometry, and provides a summary of results in a personalised hearing profile. AirPods Pro’s Hearing Aid capability is also described as an “over-the-counter” tool for mild to moderate hearing loss. Using the personalised hearing profile, this new feature transforms AirPods Pro into a clinical-grade hearing aid.
AirPods 4 ($129) and AirPods 4 with ANC ($179) are available to pre-order now, with availability from 20 September. The hearing health features do not yet have a confirmed arrival date, but will launch for AirPods Pro 2 customers in a free software update this year.
Find out more over at the Apple Newsroom.
