At the “It’s Glowtime” event held at Apple Park, Cupertino, Apple introduced the AirPods 4, marking a new milestone in the company’s wearable audio products. For the first time, the base AirPods come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), alongside other cutting-edge features like machine learning-based gesture controls. Additionally, Apple upgraded its AirPods Pro (2nd generation) and AirPods Max with new functionalities and color options.
AirPods 4: Pricing in India
The AirPods 4 will be available in two variants—with and without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). The base model, without ANC, is priced at Rs. 12,900, while the version with ANC will cost Rs. 17,900. Pre-orders start today, and the new AirPods will be available for purchase starting September 20.
AirPods 4: Specifications and Features
Apple’s AirPods 4 offer notable upgrades, bringing Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode—features previously limited to the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max—to the base AirPods. The earphones are powered by Apple’s latest H2 chip, which improves sound quality and provides features like Personalized Spatial Audio, Adaptive Audio, and Conversational Awareness.
The AirPods 4 also include gesture-based controls, powered by machine learning. Users can now nod to answer calls or shake their head to dismiss them. They also feature voice isolation, ensuring crystal-clear calls, and force sensors for quick media controls.
Additionally, Apple has introduced a new USB Type-C charging case, replacing the old Lightning port. This charging case offers up to 30 hours of total battery life and supports wireless charging.
AirPods Max Get New Colors and USB-C
Apple also gave its AirPods Max over-the-ear headphones a fresh look with new color options—Blue, Midnight, and Starlight. These updated models now feature a USB-C charging port, aligning with the rest of Apple’s ecosystem. While there aren’t major hardware changes, the AirPods Max still deliver Personalized Spatial Audio and offer 30 hours of playtime.
AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Upgrades
Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd generation) also received significant upgrades at the event, focusing on health and hearing. The new Hearing Test feature allows users to test their hearing using their iPhone or iPad. The Noise App and Personalized Hearing Profiles aim to enhance users’ hearing experience, while the over-the-counter hearing aid feature is designed to assist users with mild to moderate hearing loss.
These hearing-focused features will be available later this fall as part of a free software update to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18.
Innovative Open-Ear Design for AirPods 4
Apple has redefined comfort with an open-ear design for the AirPods 4, focusing on a snug fit. Using 3D photogrammetry and laser topography, Apple collected over 50 million data points to create a design that accommodates a wider range of ear shapes.
The AirPods 4 boast an all-new acoustic architecture, enhanced by a low-distortion driver and high dynamic range amplifier, ensuring premium sound quality. With Personalized Spatial Audio and dynamic head tracking, users can enjoy an immersive listening experience.
Battery Life and Durability
The AirPods 4 deliver up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge, with a total of 30 hours when paired with the charging case. The AirPods 4 with ANC offer 4 hours of listening with noise cancellation enabled and 20 hours in total with the charging case. Both models are equipped with IP54-rated dust, sweat, and water resistance, making them ideal for workouts and outdoor activities.
New Hearing Health Features for AirPods Pro
In a bid to promote hearing health, Apple introduced new features for the AirPods Pro 2. The Loud Sound Reduction feature helps reduce exposure to loud noises while maintaining audio clarity, useful in environments like concerts. This feature works alongside the Hearing Test to monitor hearing health and create personalized hearing profiles.
Additionally, users with mild hearing loss can now take advantage of an over-the-counter hearing aid feature, leveraging their personalized hearing profile to enhance conversations and daily audio interactions.
Pricing and Availability
- AirPods 4 (without ANC): Rs. 12,900
- AirPods 4 (with ANC): Rs. 17,900
- AirPods Max (new colors with USB-C): Rs. 59,900
- AirPods Pro 2 (with new hearing features): Rs. 24,900
All the products are available for pre-order today and will be available in stores starting September 20. Buyers will also receive three months of Apple Music for free with any AirPods purchase.
With new innovations and a focus on comfort, health, and sound quality, Apple’s latest audio devices continue to set the standard for premium wearable technology.
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