Apple unveils AirPods 5 with redesigned acoustics and 50% better noise cancellation

Apple announced the AirPods 5 during its September iPhone event. The update focuses on internal redesigns rather than radical outward changes: Apple points to a new multiport acoustic architecture and a next‑generation Adaptive EQ as the main technical changes intended to improve sound quality and noise reduction.

Apple claims the AirPods 5 achieve 50% more noise reduction compared with AirPods 4. The company described this as "the best ANC in an open‑ear headphone design." Adaptive Audio now shifts between ANC and Transparency automatically in response to background noise.

The physical look remains similar to the previous generation, while controls have been updated. You can adjust volume by swiping up or down on the stem. Other built‑in features announced include live translations and personalized Spatial Audio improvements through the updated Adaptive EQ.

Apple lists battery life at up to five hours of listening with ANC enabled and up to 20 hours total when using the charging case. The AirPods 5 arrive in two configurations: a base model and a higher‑end option that includes a wireless charging case. Apple set the launch date for September 18 and announced pricing of $179 for the base model and $209 for the version with wireless charging.

• ANC: AirPods 5 add active noise cancellation improvements Apple quantifies as 50% better than AirPods 4.
• Audio tuning: The new multiport acoustic architecture and next‑generation Adaptive EQ are intended to change the sound profile versus the previous generation.
• Controls and features: On‑stem volume swipes and automatic Adaptive Audio switching are new usability touches.
• Battery and packaging: The higher‑end AirPods 5 include wireless charging and have the same stated battery totals with ANC on and with the case as reported.

Apple listed a September 18 shipping date and the two price points above. The announcement was part of Apple's September iPhone event coverage.

AirPods 5 are an incremental but targeted upgrade. The headline claim is a substantial improvement in active noise cancellation for this open‑ear form factor, supported by internal acoustic and EQ changes. Battery figures and new on‑device volume gestures round out the update, and Apple will offer two configurations at separate price points when they ship on September 18.