- Apple has announced two models of the new AirPods 4
- The AirPods 4 are powered by a H2 chip and feature active noise cancellation
- The AirPods Max also get a slight update — namely new colourways and USB-C charging
While the iPhone 16 was the star of Apple’s most recent “Glowtime” event, it wasn’t the only product announced. Apple also unveiled a new iteration of its AirPods — aptly titled the AirPods 4— which is set to be released alongside its latest smartphone range.
Let’s take a look at what the AirPods 4 have to offer, along with a few of Apple’s other key audio announcements.
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What Are The AirPods 4 Features?
The AirPods 4 are available in two models: one less expensive standard version and another that is equipped with active noise cancellation.
Regardless of which model you pick up, the AirPods use an open-ear earbud design. This houses improved acoustic architecture, a low-distortion driver, a high dynamic range amplifier, and is powered by Apple’s H2 chip (the same one found in the AirPods Pro 2).
The result is improved audio quality, along with clearer voice isolation when making phone calls and access to the Personalised Spatial Audio feature.
The battery life of the AirPods 4 is around five hours on a single charge, with an extra 25 hours available via the charging case. This is a slight roll back from the previous generation, as the AirPods 3 could run for six hours on a single charge (although it had the same 30-hour maximum). If you use the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation running, that battery life will roll back to four hours on a single charge and a total of 20 when using the charging case.
The AirPods 4 are IP54-rated: meaning they’re resistant to dust, sweat and water — ideal if you plan to wear them while working out.
On top of its active noise cancellation feature, the ANC model also offers Transparency mode and Adaptive Audio, which will automatically adjust to the sounds of your surrounding environment.
While both versions of the AirPods 4 can be charged by USB-C, only the ANC model offers compatibility with the Apple Watch charger and Qi-certified wireless chargers. The ANC model’s charging case also includes a speaker that will trigger an alert through the “Find My” feature – provided you’re still within Bluetooth range.
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When Will The AirPods 4 Be Released In Australia?
The AirPods 4 will be released in Australia on September 20th, although pre-orders are currently already open.
How Much Will The AirPods 4 Cost In Australia?
The standard AirPods 4 will retail for $219 in Australia, while the model with active nose cancellation will set you back $299.
More AirPods Announcements
The AirPods Pro 2 will be receiving a major software upgrade that will allow them to function as an over-the-counter hearing aid for users with “mild to moderate hearing loss”. To access this feature, you’ll need to complete a Hearing Test that’ll help create a personalised hearing profile, which will help adjust surrounding sounds in real time.
This feature is expected to become available in over 100 countries and regions during Spring 2024, although Apple notes that it’s still pending marketing authorisation from global health authorities.
The AirPods Max has also received a slight update as well. The over-ear headphones will be available in new colourways — starlight, orange, purple, blue, and midnight — and are now equipped with USB-C charging.
