Apple has unveiled its latest innovations in audio technology with the new AirPods 4 and updated AirPods Max, showcasing groundbreaking design and advanced features. The AirPods 4 are set to redefine the open-ear listening experience with the introduction of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), while AirPods Max now comes in five new colors and includes USB-C charging for added convenience.
AirPods 4: Redefining Open-Ear Audio
The AirPods 4 set a new standard in open-ear headphone design with a focus on unparalleled fit and comfort. The design process involved advanced modeling tools, including 3D photogrammetry and laser topography, analyzing thousands of ear shapes and over 50 million data points to create a universal fit that caters to a wider range of users.
The H2 chip in AirPods 4 significantly enhances sound quality with its new acoustic architecture, low-distortion driver, and high dynamic range amplifier. These features enable Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, providing an immersive audio experience.
For intelligent features, AirPods 4 include Voice Isolation, which ensures clearer call quality in various environments, and Siri Interactions, allowing users to respond to Siri with simple head gestures. The new force sensor on the stem enables easy media control and call management. The AirPods 4 also support 16-bit, 48kHz audio for low-latency gaming with excellent voice quality.
The updated charging case now features USB-C charging and is over 10% smaller in volume compared to previous models. It offers up to 30 hours of battery life and supports charging via an Apple Watch charger or Qi-certified charger. At 50mm wide, it is the smallest wireless charging case in the industry.
AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
For the first time, Active Noise Cancellation is available in the AirPods 4’s open-ear design. This model features advanced microphones and the H2 chip to reduce environmental noise such as airplane engines and city traffic. Additional features include Transparency mode to maintain environmental awareness, Adaptive Audio which dynamically adjusts between Transparency mode and ANC, and Conversation Awareness, which lowers media volume when speaking to someone nearby.
AirPods Max: New Colors and USB-C Charging
The AirPods Max now come in five vibrant new colors: midnight, starlight, blue, purple, and orange. These colors complement other Apple products and provide users with more personalization options. Additionally, AirPods Max now support USB-C charging, making them more versatile for charging at home or on the go. Overall, that’s it, no other changes which is kinda ridiculous when you realise its been over 4 years since the AirPods Max were launched. Oh well, that’s Apple for you.
Environmental Impact
Apple continues its commitment to sustainability with the new AirPods 4. They are crafted from 100% recycled rare earth elements in all magnets, 100% recycled gold in the circuit board plating, and 100% recycled tin in the solder of the main logic board. The AirPods 4 are free from harmful substances such as mercury, BFRs, and PVC, and feature 100% fiber-based packaging, contributing to Apple’s goal of removing plastic from packaging by 2025. The reduced packaging volume by over 30% helps decrease shipping emissions, aligning with Apple’s carbon neutrality goal by 2030.
Pricing and Availability
- AirPods 4: RRP A$219 (inc. GST), available for pre-order from apple.com/au/store and the Apple Store app. In stores from Friday, 20 September.
- AirPods 4 with ANC: RRP A$299 (inc. GST), available for pre-order from apple.com/au/store and the Apple Store app. In stores from Friday, 20 September.
- AirPods Max: RRP A$899 (inc. GST), available for pre-order from apple.com/au/store and the Apple Store app. In stores from Friday, 20 September.
New subscribers can enjoy three months of Apple Music free with the purchase of eligible new AirPods models. For full functionality, AirPods 4 and AirPods Max should be paired with an Apple device running the latest operating system.
AppleCare+ for Headphones offers comprehensive support, including unlimited incidents of accidental damage, battery service coverage, and priority assistance from Apple experts.
The new AirPods 4 and AirPods Max represent Apple’s continued innovation in audio technology, combining advanced features with a commitment to sustainability and user convenience.
