Apple AirPods 5 Bring ANC, Better Sound and Longer Battery Life

Apple has released the AirPods 5, featuring active noise cancellation (ANC), enhanced sound quality, and a longer battery life. The new earbuds come in two versions. One model features a USB-C charging case, while the more expensive version includes a wireless charging case and stem touch controls. Both models now support ANC. Apple asserts that the AirPods 5 provide the best ANC available in an open-ear design.

Improved Noise Cancellation and Sound The new ANC system can reduce external noise by up to 50% more compared to the previous generation. Apple has also improved the Transparency mode, which can now reproduce voices and surrounding sounds more naturally. The AirPods 5 utilize a new multiport acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ, resulting in richer and more detailed sound.

The redesigned earbuds should also fit better across various ear shapes, improving personalized spatial audio. New Siri Features and Gestures The AirPods 5 add hands-free Siri AI when paired with an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone. Users can ask Siri to locate personal information in messages, emails, and photos and utilize that information within compatible applications.

Apple has also introduced head gestures for Siri. Users can nod to respond “yes” and shake their head to indicate “no.” The wireless charging version includes swipe controls on the stem for adjusting volume. This marks the first time non-Pro AirPods have received this feature. Battery and Durability The AirPods 5 offer up to five hours of listening time with ANC enabled, which is one hour longer than the previous iteration.

The wireless charging version provides up to 22 hours of total battery life. The new earbuds also carry an IP57 rating, indicating temporary immersion resistance compared to the splash resistance provided by earlier models. Price and Availability The AirPods 5 begin at $129, accompanied by the standard USB-C charging case. The version with a wireless charging case and stem touch controls is priced at $149.