Apple hadn’t updated its audio devices for quite some time. The September 9 keynote was an opportunity to refresh the range with some improvements and, above all, AirPods 4 available in two versions.
In the weeks leading up to Apple’s keynote on September 9, rumors were swirling about a new version of the famous AirPods headphones. From the standard models to their big brothers, the Pro, and even the AirPods Max, all were supposed to get a new version. The rumors were partly true. Only partly, because the only real new feature is the AirPods, which are going to version 4. The AirPods Pro, like the AirPods Max, are content with very slight improvements, so much so that they don’t even change their name.
Apple AirPods 4: will you take them with or without active noise reduction?
Since their debut, AirPods have been presented as open-fit wireless headphones. That is to say, they do not come with silicone tips to isolate hearing from surrounding noise. They differ in this from the AirPods Pro, which can be partially inserted into the ear canal for initial passive isolation. For its AirPods 4, Apple is seeing double. The company is offering two versions. The first remains fairly classic and the second also has an active noise reduction system. An original process for open headphones since, as is the case with all other manufacturers, it requires a passive isolation device to be effective.
The Airpods 4 thus succeed the AirPods 3 released in 2021. They now benefit from the H2 chip which optimizes the connection with an Apple device like an iPhone. They are also equipped with a button on the stem to take phone calls and manage the playback of multimedia files. It is even possible to pick up (or not) with a simple movement of the head. Be careful not to make any mistakes.
The other version of the AirPods features an active noise reduction (ANC) system. We can’t wait to see what this device can do with Open-fit headphones. If these fit particularly well in the ear (Apple is said to have worked hard on their shape so that they fit as many ears as possible), the result should be very appreciable and satisfy those who can’t stand the intrusive side of in-ear headphones.
Both versions of the new AirPods 4 of course have a USB-C charging port on the case but also a Qi/Qi2/MagSafe device for wireless charging. They are available for pre-order today and in stores on September 20. The AirPods 4 are priced at 149 euros. Add 50 euros for the ANC version, or 199 euros.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max: Little Change for a Winning Team
Don’t expect a version 3 of the AirPods Pro. Apple is simply upgrading its high-end headphones in software. The aim here is not to improve audio quality but to focus on the health of your ears. It will thus be possible to analyze your hearing and establish a profile that you can communicate to your ENT if you ever have any doubts about a possible sensation of hearing loss. In addition, Apple is pushing a little further on the AirPods function allowing people who suffer from a slight hearing loss to understand conversations a little better.
As for the AirPods Max, Apple’s very high-end headset, the company is offering a simple facelift.
The headset is now available in five colors and… has a USB-C port to comply with the European Commission’s guidelines. And despite being in the Apple catalog for more than two and a half years, the AirPods Max headset has kept the same price: 580 euros.