The AirPods are one of the most popular Apple accessories of the past years and that asks for innovation. Just like the AirPods Pro, the ‘regular’ AirPods now also have active noise cancellation.
The AirPods 4th generation look similar to the previous model, but appearances can be deceiving. The new AirPods contain some interesting innovations, especially internally, such as the H2 chip and Bluetooth 5.3. The charging case has also been renewed with Find My support and USB-C.
AirPods 4th generation design
The design of the fourth-generation AirPods is largely the same as the previous model. The shorter pressure-sensitive rods are still present and the universal fit of the head has been retained. Unlike the AirPods Pro, the ‘regular AirPods’ do not have silicone ear tips.
Active noise cancellation
Active Noise Cancellation is an advanced technology that detects external sounds and then generates counter-phase sounds to cancel them out, creating a quieter listening environment. This process helps to effectively reduce unwanted sounds, such as background noise on airplanes or busy city environments, and enhance the listening experience.
Like the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, the 4th-generation AirPods get this form of audio control. The AirPods 4 only have active noise cancellation, which is applied through software. The AirPods Pro and AirPods Max also have passive noise cancellation in the form of silicone ear tips and ear cushions.
H2 Headphone Chip
Apple also added the H2 chip to the AirPods 4, which is faster, more power-efficient, and can perform certain audio features better. The new processor makes music sound better with stronger bass and less distortion, and the AirPods 4 also benefit from the following audio features:
- Adaptive audio
- Conversation detection
- Personalized volume
- Voice isolation during conversations
- Shake your head to respond to Siri
- Suppression of loud noises
Touch control
The AirPods 4th generation still feature a short rod with pressure sensor. New is the option to operate them with swipe gestures. Just like on the AirPods Pro 2, you can use touch controls to control all playback functions on the stem. To adjust the volume, swipe up or down.
Improved charging case with USB-C
Just like the AirPods Pro, Apple has renewed the charging case with, among other things, a mounting eye and speaker. The case can be charged via the USB-C port, using MagSafe or an Apple Watch charger.
The speaker in the charging case is not meant for music, but to be able to play a sound when they are lost. Via the Find My app you can then play a sound on the case, so you can find it more easily.
Two models
The AirPods 4 come in two versions:
- Standard without active noise cancellation and associated audio functions. A standard charging case without wireless charging and speaker.
- Extended version with active noise cancellation and all the innovations. Including charging case with wireless charging via Qi and MagSafe and speaker for find my AirPods.
Other innovations
- Transparency mode
- Dust, sweat and water resistant (IP54): AirPods and charging case
- Bluetooth 5.3 support
- Spatial audio support (already present)
Buy the renewed AirPods 4th generation
The new AirPods are available from today and come standard with a wireless charging case with USB-C, Qi and MagSafe. You have the choice with (€ 199) or without active noise cancellation (€ 149). The first units will be delivered on September 20. New subscribers get 3 months of free Apple Music with the purchase of a pair of AirPods.
The new AirPods will also be available as soon as possible at Bol.com, Coolblue, MediaMarkt, Amazon, YourMacStore, Paradigit, Yorcom and Expert.
AirPods Max customized
The AirPods Max have also been renewed by Apple, but are a big disappointment. For example, Apple has only added USB-C and new colors. The H2 chip and associated audio functions are missing on the AirPods Max.
It’s notable that Apple chooses to slightly renew the AirPods Max, but not to add an H2 chip. This means that the AirPods Max are incredibly outdated and do not benefit from Apple’s latest audio features, a shame.
Please note, this article is still being updated.