Apple introduces AirPods 5 with best-in-class open-ear Active Noise Cancellation

Apple introduced AirPods 5, marking the first open-ear design to include industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which reduces external noise by up to 50 percent compared to AirPods 4 with ANC. The new multiport acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ enhance sound quality, while an improved Transparency mode offers more natural ambient audio. Users can access Siri hands-free for tasks like playing music or navigating reservations, with responses possible via head gestures. Live Translation, powered by Apple Intelligence, enables real-time language interpretation during conversations.

AirPods 5 introduce Adaptive Audio, dynamically blending ANC and Transparency mode based on environmental conditions, alongside Conversation Awareness to lower media volume when speaking. Personalized Spatial Audio is enhanced for a more immersive listening experience across varied ear shapes. The devices support Siri AI, which leverages Apple Intelligence for contextual understanding across messages, emails, and photos, offering more natural and customizable voice interactions. Dictation accuracy has also improved, and Siri remains compatible with third-party apps for actions like messaging or audio playback.

AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case provide extended battery life, delivering up to five hours of playback with ANC on a single charge—one hour longer than AirPods 4 with ANC. The wireless charging case supports Apple Watch chargers, Qi-compatible chargers, and USB-C, with total battery life extending to 22 hours when using ANC. A new force sensor on the stems allows volume adjustment via swiping, a feature debuting in the open-ear form factor. The charging case is constructed with 70 percent recycled plastic and 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery.

Apple emphasized sustainability in AirPods 5, incorporating 40 percent recycled materials overall and manufacturing with 35 percent renewable energy across the supply chain. The devices meet Apple’s energy efficiency and safe chemistry standards, with 100 percent fiber-based packaging designed for easy home recycling. Pre-orders begin today, with in-store availability starting September 18. Dave Pakula, Apple’s vice president of Hardware Engineering, highlighted the inclusion of ANC in the most affordable AirPods lineup as a significant advancement.