Apple has introduced AirPods 5, the newest version of its wireless earbuds, with a clear focus on better sound, smarter interaction, and a more refined everyday experience.
Key upgrades
The biggest change is improved active noise cancellation. Apple says the new model cuts background noise by up to 50% more than the previous generation, bringing the feature to the standard AirPods lineup for the first time.
The earbuds also add stem-based volume control, letting users adjust sound with a simple swipe instead of reaching for their iPhone. Alongside this, Transparency mode has been tuned to sound more natural, while Adaptive Audio can automatically shift between noise cancellation and ambient sound depending on the environment.
Apple is also expanding hands-free use through Siri and Apple Intelligence. The updated assistant is designed to understand personal context more effectively, drawing on content from apps such as messages, email, and photos to help complete tasks or surface useful information.
Battery performance has been improved as well. Apple says AirPods 5 can deliver up to five hours of listening time with active noise cancellation enabled, while the charging case extends total use to as much as 22 hours.
The new earbuds start at $129, with a version that includes a Wireless Charging Case priced at $149. Pre-orders are open now, and availability begins on September 18.
With these updates, AirPods 5 point to a future where everyday audio devices become even more intuitive, adaptive, and seamlessly connected.
