Biggest ever AirPods revamp arrives next week as Apple confirms 'revolutionary' upgrade
Apple's AirPods are getting a massive overhaul with a new look, more power and new way to charge.
If you're in need of some new AirPods we'd recommend waiting a few more days before taking the plunge. Apple has just confirmed the launch of new wireless earbuds which change the way they look and sound. The all-new AirPods 4 get a sleek design, long 24-hour battery life and improved audio thanks to an entirely new acoustic architecture, low-distortion driver and high dynamic range amplifier.
They also get the latest H2 chip inside which brings improved Voice Isolation for better calls, simple Siri commands (you can shake your head to say no to this personal assistant) along with low wireless audio latency making them great for gamers.
The charging case now offers USB-C rather than Apple's Lightning connector and it is more than 10 percent smaller in volume than its predecessor.
Apple is also promising a supremely comfortable fit for all users. The standard model starts from £129 but there is also a version of the AirPods 4 that get Active Noise Cancellation as well. This means owners will hear more of their music and less of the background sound around them.
For those times when it's vital to hear noise - when at an airport for example - there's a Transparency mode to keep users aware of their environment. The ANC version of the AirPods 4 cost £179.
These new buds aren't the only updates from Apple. The US firm has also revealed new AirPods Max over-ear cans that now come in new colours and get USB-C charging.
Finally, if you own the latest AirPods Pro 2 then a free update is being released that helps improve hearing health.
Loud Sound Reduction will help to actively reduce louder, more intermittent noise at 48,000 times per second.
Then there's a new Hearing Test feature that allows users to quickly check their hearing from the comfort of their home in minutes. The results can then be shared with their doctor.
"With AirPods 4, customers can enjoy Active Noise Cancellation and the most advanced audio experience ever in an open-ear design,” said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering.
“And with a revolutionary update to the world’s best-selling headphones, AirPods Pro will deliver groundbreaking new capabilities — including Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features — to help more than a billion people affected by hearing loss.”
