Bluetooth earbuds have quickly become a commodity, thanks in large part to Apple’s AirPods. These earbuds have revitalized the consumer music tech scene, akin to the original iPod.
The AirPods have remained relatively unchanged since their debut eight years ago. While they have received some refinements and added features, the core product has stayed the same.
However, at Apple’s recent event introducing the iPhone 16, the AirPods lineup took a new direction. The base AirPods split into two distinct products: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation.
Here’s how the lineup looks now:
- AirPods 4 ($129)
- AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation ($179)
- AirPods Pro ($229)
- AirPods Max ($549)
The naming of the new tier, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (referred to as “AP4wANC”) may have caused some confusion. Despite the awkward name, it accurately describes the product.
The AP4wANC earbuds represent a bridge between the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro lineup. They offer a familiar design with some key enhancements such as wireless charging, FindMy speaker, and active noise cancellation, similar to the AirPods Pro.
Choosing between the AP4wANC and AirPods Pro largely comes down to price and personal preference. While the AP4wANC are $50 cheaper and may appeal to those who prefer the open design, the AirPods Pro offer comfort and advanced features like silicone tips for noise isolation.
The introduction of the AP4wANC raised questions about how it differs from the AirPods Pro models. Despite sharing the same H2 chip, the AP4wANC boasts unique features like swipeable volume controls, improved noise cancellation, and extended battery life.
While rumors suggest AirPods Pro 3 are on the horizon, the distinction between models isn’t significant. However, one surprise development is the FDA approval for AirPods Pro models to serve as hearing aids, showcasing Apple’s innovative approach to the product line.
Currently, only AirPods Pro 2 support this feature due to the need for silicone tips for noise cancellation and the H2 chip. This sets a limitation for the standard AirPods 4.
Ultimately, the choice between the AP4wANC and AirPods Pro comes down to personal preferences, with the former offering comfort and a more open design, while the latter provides advanced features like noise isolation and a seal for better sound quality.
While the market for wireless earbuds has evolved significantly since the launch of the first AirPods, these earbuds remain a benchmark in the industry. They offer a high-quality audio experience and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem. The price difference between the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC is justified by the added features.
