Apple has introduced the AirPods 5, bringing Active Noise Cancellation, improved audio and new AI-powered features to its open-ear wireless earbuds. The new generation keeps the familiar open-ear design while adding a redesigned acoustic architecture and deeper integration with Apple Intelligence.
AirPods 5 are positioned as the more affordable alternative to Apple’s premium AirPods Pro lineup. The standard model starts at $129 in the United States, while AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case are priced at $149. Pre-orders are now available, with retail availability beginning September 18.
AirPods 5 keeps the open-ear design
Unlike the AirPods Pro series, AirPods 5 do not use silicone ear tips. The open-ear design is aimed at users who prefer to maintain a greater sense of their surroundings while listening to music, podcasts or making calls.
Apple has redesigned the acoustic system for the new generation. AirPods 5 feature a new multiport acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ, which are designed to provide richer and more detailed sound across different ear shapes.
Personalized Spatial Audio is also supported, providing a more immersive listening experience with compatible content.
Active Noise Cancellation comes to both AirPods 5 models
One of the biggest changes is Active Noise Cancellation. Apple says AirPods 5 can reduce up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation.
That is a significant claim considering the open-ear design. Because AirPods 5 do not completely seal the ear canal, they still allow users to remain more connected to their surroundings than with traditional in-ear earbuds.
The new model also includes Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness. Adaptive Audio automatically balances noise cancellation and transparency according to the surrounding environment, while Conversation Awareness lowers media volume when the user starts speaking.
Better sound without changing the basic concept
Apple has focused on improving audio quality rather than completely changing the AirPods formula. The new multiport acoustic architecture works together with Adaptive EQ to deliver a more detailed sound profile.
This approach makes AirPods 5 particularly interesting for users who like the comfort and openness of standard AirPods but want some of the more advanced audio features previously associated with higher-end models.
AirPods 5 adds AI and Live Translation
Artificial intelligence is another important part of the new AirPods experience. When paired with a compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone, AirPods 5 provide hands-free access to the new Siri AI features.
Users can interact with Siri using voice commands and, in supported situations, respond using head gestures. Apple says the new Siri AI is designed to understand personal context and perform actions across supported apps.
AirPods 5 also support Live Translation, allowing users to communicate across languages with the help of Apple Intelligence. Availability depends on the supported device, operating system, language and region.
Apple Intelligence will support Turkish among its listed languages, although Siri AI is initially rolling out as a beta in English, with additional language support planned for October. Live Translation also has separate language and regional availability requirements.
AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case
Apple offers two versions of the AirPods 5. The standard model comes with a USB-C charging case and starts at $129.
The $149 AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case adds several features. The redesigned charging case supports Apple Watch chargers, Qi-compatible chargers and USB-C.
The upgraded version also introduces volume control directly on the stem. Users can swipe up or down on the stem to adjust the volume, a feature Apple is bringing to its open-ear design for the first time.
Battery life is also improved. Apple rates the Wireless Charging Case version for up to five hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation enabled on a single charge, and up to 22 hours with the charging case.
AirPods 5 vs. AirPods 4
For AirPods 4 owners, the upgrade decision depends largely on which version they currently use.
Users with the standard AirPods 4 have a more obvious reason to consider upgrading because Active Noise Cancellation is now available with AirPods 5. The new acoustic architecture, improved durability and AI-related features add further differences.
The situation is less straightforward for AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. While Apple claims up to 50 percent more external noise reduction, the overall listening experience remains based on the same open-ear concept.
For existing AirPods 4 ANC owners, the decision may therefore depend on how important improved noise cancellation, longer battery life and the new AI features are to their daily use.
AirPods 5 vs. AirPods Pro
AirPods 5 are not designed to replace the AirPods Pro. Instead, Apple is creating a lower-priced option that combines an open-ear design with several advanced features.
The AirPods Pro remain the better choice for users who want a sealed in-ear fit, stronger isolation and the broader feature set of Apple’s premium earbuds. AirPods 5, meanwhile, make more sense for users who prioritize comfort, awareness of their surroundings and a more traditional AirPods fit.
Is AirPods 5 worth buying?
AirPods 5 represent a significant update to Apple’s standard AirPods range. Active Noise Cancellation is the most important addition, while the new acoustic architecture, Adaptive EQ, improved durability and Apple Intelligence features broaden the product’s capabilities.
The $129 starting price also makes AirPods 5 an interesting option for users who want ANC without moving directly to Apple’s more expensive Pro models.
However, the real-world performance of the open-ear ANC system, sound quality and battery life will ultimately determine how compelling the upgrade is. Since AirPods 5 will reach stores on September 18, longer-term testing will be needed before making a final judgment on their performance.
For now, AirPods 5 look like a meaningful upgrade for users coming from older standard AirPods, while AirPods 4 ANC owners have fewer reasons to upgrade immediately.
