This year’s Apple AirPods have arrived. Among the improvements are upgraded ANC and a revised acoustic design, which should result in even better sound quality.
From September 18, you can buy the new Apple AirPods 5 in-ears, with a choice between a version with a USB-C charging case and one with a wireless charging case. This time, both versions feature ANC. They are based on an open-ear design and feature a new multi-port acoustic architecture, along with a next-generation adaptive equalizer. According to Apple, all of this should result in richer, more detailed sound across a wider range of ear shapes. ANC has also been improved compared with the previous generation, with the manufacturer claiming 50% greater noise reduction. In addition, the AirPods 5 should have no trouble coping with a decent rain shower thanks to their IP57 rating.
For those who like the feature, the earbuds can – almost inevitably – be used hands-free in combination with the also updated Siri smart assistant. This time, that includes live translation as well, which is always useful. Battery life, of course, remains an important consideration with completely wireless in-ears. In the case of the AirPods 5, you get four hours of listening on a full charge with ANC enabled. With the charging case, depending on which version you choose, that increases to a total of up to 20 hours for the USB-C version or up to 22 hours for the wireless version, without having to go anywhere near a wall socket.
The Apple AirPods 5 are quite reasonably priced. The version with the USB-C charging case costs €149, while the more premium model with the wireless charging case is priced at €169.