Apple AirPods 5 Launches With Best-in-Class Open-Ear ANC
Apple has introduced AirPods 5 with industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) in an open-ear design. The new earbuds also bring improved sound quality, hands-free Siri AI access, and Live Translation. As a result, they offer several advanced features at a lower starting price.
AirPods 5 feature a new multiport acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ. Together, these technologies aim to deliver richer and more immersive audio. The new open-ear ANC can remove up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with ANC.
At the same time, AirPods 5 improve Transparency mode to make nearby voices and sounds feel more natural. Adaptive Audio can also balance ANC and Transparency mode according to the surrounding environment. In addition, Conversation Awareness automatically lowers media volume when the user begins speaking.
The standard AirPods 5 start at $129. Meanwhile, AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case cost $149 and add longer battery life and on-stem volume control. Customers can pre-order both models now, with store availability beginning September 18.
Better Noise Cancellation and Sound
AirPods 5 bring ANC to Apple’s most affordable AirPods range. The feature can reduce up to 50 percent more noise than AirPods 4 with ANC. Therefore, users can enjoy music with fewer distractions during flights, commutes, or work sessions.
However, the earbuds also keep users connected to their surroundings. Their improved Transparency mode allows voices and nearby sounds to come through more naturally. Furthermore, Adaptive Audio automatically blends ANC and Transparency mode based on environmental conditions.
Conversation Awareness adds another useful touch. When users start talking, the earbuds reduce media volume automatically. Consequently, conversations can feel more natural without requiring manual controls.
Beyond noise control, Apple has redesigned the acoustic system. The new multiport acoustic architecture works with next-generation Adaptive EQ to provide richer and more detailed sound.
The system also supports a wider range of ear geometries. As a result, users can experience more consistent audio performance. Personalized Spatial Audio further adds a more immersive listening experience by making sound feel more surrounding and dynamic.
Siri AI, Live Translation and Longer Battery Life
AirPods 5 also add several intelligent features for users with compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhones. Siri AI can provide hands-free assistance while users are on the move. For example, users can ask Siri to play a song mentioned in a message or navigate to a dinner reservation found in an email.
Siri AI also offers a more conversational experience and can understand personal context across supported apps and content. Additionally, users can use Dictation to capture spoken words more accurately.
AirPods 5 also support Siri Interactions. Users can respond discreetly by nodding their head for yes or shaking it for no. This makes controlling Siri possible without speaking aloud.
Meanwhile, Live Translation helps users communicate across different languages. After setting up the feature in the Translate app and downloading the required languages, users can start Live Translation in several ways. They can press both AirPods stems, say “Siri, start Live Translation,” or use the Action button on a compatible iPhone.
AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case offer additional upgrades. For the first time in an open-ear AirPods design, users can swipe up or down on the stem to adjust volume. This provides faster control without reaching for an iPhone.
Battery life has also improved. The Wireless Charging Case model provides up to five hours of playback with ANC enabled on one charge. That is one hour more than AirPods 4 with ANC. Moreover, the charging case extends total listening time to up to 22 hours with ANC.
The wireless charging case supports Apple Watch chargers, Qi-compatible chargers, and USB-C charging.
Price, Availability and Sustainability
AirPods 5 start at $129 in the United States and more than 65 other countries and regions. Meanwhile, AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case are priced at $149. Both models are available for pre-order from September 10, with retail availability starting September 18.
For full functionality, users need to pair AirPods 5 with an Apple device running the latest operating system software. Apple Intelligence will arrive with iOS 27 on September 14 for supported devices and languages.
Siri AI will also begin rolling out as a beta with iOS 27. Initially, it will support English, while French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish support is scheduled for October.
Live Translation requires compatible Apple devices, compatible AirPods, the latest firmware, and Apple Intelligence enabled. Availability can vary by language and region.
AirPods 5 also place a focus on environmental impact. The earbuds use 40 percent recycled material overall. In addition, the wireless charging case contains 70 percent recycled plastic, while the battery uses 100 percent recycled cobalt.
The manufacturing process uses 35 percent renewable energy across the supply chain. The earbuds also meet energy-efficiency and safe-chemistry standards. Furthermore, their paper packaging uses 100 percent fiber-based materials and can be recycled at home.
With ANC, improved audio, intelligent features, and better durability, AirPods 5 offer a broader feature set at a lower entry price. The combination makes them a notable upgrade for users seeking an open-ear listening experience.
