Apple’s AirPods 4 made their debut on September 20, 2024, launching alongside the iPhone 16 lineup. After years of anticipation—nearly five since the release of the 3rd-gen AirPods—this new generation brings Apple’s wireless audio game up to date with long-requested upgrades and features that better compete with the rest of the market. Available in two distinct models, starting at $129, the AirPods 4 now offer users real choice depending on their audio needs and budget.
Two Models, One Overhaul
For the first time, Apple has split the standard AirPods line into two separate offerings:
1. AirPods 4 (Standard – $129)
- New, more ergonomic design: A refined shape improves comfort and fit, especially for smaller ears.
- H2 chip integration: Previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro, the H2 chip brings major enhancements in audio quality, power efficiency, and call clarity.
- Voice Isolation: Uses machine learning to isolate your voice from background noise during calls.
- Personalized Spatial Audio: With dynamic head tracking, users get a more immersive listening experience that adapts to their movements.
- Sweat & dust resistant (IP54): More durable for workouts and commutes.
- USB-C charging case: A long-awaited update in the era of universal charging standards.
- 30 hours of total listening time: 6 hours on a single charge, plus multiple recharges via the case.
2. AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation – $179
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): A first for non-Pro AirPods, blocking out ambient sound with impressive precision.
- Adaptive Audio: Dynamically blends ANC and Transparency Mode depending on your environment—perfect for walking in cities or switching between quiet and noisy zones.
- Find My-enabled case with built-in speaker: Makes locating your AirPods easier than ever.
- MagSafe & wireless charging support: Compatible with Apple’s magnetic charging accessories.
- Same 30-hour battery life: Despite additional features, battery life remains strong.
Why Now Is a Great Time to Upgrade
The AirPods 4 launch couldn’t be better timed. With many users holding onto aging 1st- or 2nd-gen AirPods, the new models offer a meaningful leap forward—not just in hardware, but in real-world functionality. For users not ready to spend $249 on the AirPods Pro, the ANC version of AirPods 4 finally brings that premium audio experience to a more affordable tier.
Plus, Apple’s inclusion of USB-C across its latest devices—including iPhone 16—makes these AirPods an easy addition to your ecosystem with one less cable to carry.
Market Position and Availability
Apple’s two-pronged strategy is smart: the $129 standard version hits the budget-friendly sweet spot, while the $179 ANC version directly rivals mid-tier earbuds from Samsung, Sony, and Google. Both are now available online and in-store at Apple, Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart.
Despite rumors that Apple might overhaul the AirPods lineup more dramatically, no AirPods 5 or new Pro models have been announced as of April 2025. That makes the AirPods 4 your best bet for a modern upgrade if you’re on anything older than a 3rd-gen model.
Key Takeaways
- AirPods 4 were released on September 20, 2024, with pre-orders available immediately after their September 9 announcement.
- The new earbuds come in two different models with prices starting at $129 and are available at Apple and major retailers.
- Apple has included new hearing health features and design improvements in the AirPods 4, making them a significant upgrade from previous generations.
Key Features and Advancements
With improved sound, smarter features, better comfort, and long-requested functionality like ANC and USB-C, the AirPods 4 are Apple’s most compelling standard AirPods yet. Whether you’re a casual listener or someone who just wants reliable, high-quality audio for day-to-day use, there’s finally an AirPods option that ticks all the boxes without venturing into Pro territory.
The AirPods 4, released on September 20, 2024, brings several significant improvements over previous generations. Apple has focused on comfort, sound quality, and introducing premium features previously reserved for their Pro models.
Design and Comfort Innovations
The AirPods 4 features a redesigned shape that offers better comfort for all-day wear. Apple has updated the fit to accommodate more ear shapes, addressing a common complaint with earlier models.
Unlike the AirPods Pro line, these maintain the iconic open-ear design without silicone tips, though they sit more securely in the ear. This allows for a comfortable listening experience while maintaining awareness of surroundings.
For users seeking more immersive sound, Apple offers a step-up model with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) – a first for non-Pro AirPods. This premium version gives listeners options depending on their needs and environments.
The charging case has also been redesigned to be more pocket-friendly while maintaining the recognizable Apple aesthetic.
Enhanced Audio and Connectivity
The inclusion of Apple’s H2 chip represents a major upgrade for the AirPods 4. This powerful processor enables features previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro 2, including improved Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking for a more immersive listening experience.
Audio quality has been significantly enhanced with better bass response and clearer mids and highs. The advanced computational audio makes adjustments in real-time based on what you’re listening to.
The step-up model includes Active Noise Cancellation and Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts noise control based on your environment. Both versions support seamless switching between Apple devices through your iCloud account.
Voice isolation for calls has been improved, making conversations clearer even in noisy settings. The microphones have been upgraded to better capture voice commands for Siri.
Battery and Charging Developments
Battery life has been improved in the AirPods 4, offering up to 5 hours of listening time with ANC enabled and up to 6 hours without ANC. The charging case provides additional charges for a total of up to 30 hours of use.
The charging case now features USB-C connectivity, aligning with Apple’s move away from Lightning across its product line. This standardization makes charging more convenient for users with newer Apple devices.
Wireless charging is supported through Qi-compatible chargers, offering flexibility in how users power their AirPods. A quick 5-minute charge provides about an hour of listening time, perfect for last-minute use before heading out.
Battery health management has been improved to help maintain capacity over time. The case also includes precision finding capabilities when used with compatible iPhones, making it easier to locate misplaced AirPods.
Marketing and Availability
Apple has carefully planned the release and marketing of AirPods 4, providing consumers with multiple purchasing options and a clear timeline for availability.
Launch and Release Details
The AirPods 4 were officially introduced alongside the iPhone 16 series on September 9, 2024. This follows Apple’s pattern of previous AirPods releases in 2016, 2019, and 2021.
Pre-orders for both the standard AirPods 4 and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation became available immediately after the announcement. The official in-store availability date was set for Friday, September 20, 2024.
Apple stores worldwide began carrying the new models on the release date. Other authorized retailers have also started stocking the AirPods 4, expanding the purchasing options for consumers interested in the latest wireless earbuds from Apple.
Pricing and Purchasing Options
Apple offers two distinct versions of the AirPods 4 at different price points to accommodate various consumer needs and budgets:
- Standard AirPods 4 – Basic model with improved features over previous generations
- AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation – Premium version with added noise cancellation technology
Both models feature the new hearing health experience that Apple has promoted heavily in its marketing materials. The AirPods 4 can be purchased through several channels:
- Apple’s official website
- Apple retail stores
- Authorized Apple resellers
- Major electronics retailers
- Mobile carriers offering bundle deals with iPhone purchases
Each retailer may offer slightly different pricing, promotional bundles, or trade-in options for customers looking to upgrade from previous AirPods models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple’s AirPods 4 launched in September 2024 with two variants, including one with noise cancellation features. The earbuds introduced several improvements and new capabilities compared to previous generations while maintaining Apple’s signature design philosophy.
When is the expected release date for the AirPods 4?
The AirPods 4 were released in September 2024. Apple made them available for pre-order immediately after their announcement, with in-store availability beginning on Friday, September 20, 2024.
Both variants of the AirPods 4 were released simultaneously, giving customers the choice between the standard model and the noise-canceling version.
What will be the price range for the AirPods 4 upon release?
The AirPods 4 were released at different price points for the two variants. Since their release, some retailers have offered discounts on the standard model.
One notable deal brought the price down to $100 at Target, representing a 23% discount from the original price and marking the lowest price point since release.
What new features can we anticipate in the upcoming AirPods 4?
The AirPods 4 introduced several new features, including a redesigned form factor and improved audio quality. The higher-end model includes active noise cancellation, while both models share most other features.
Unlike the AirPods Pro, the standard AirPods 4 don’t include the full suite of hearing health features that Apple has been developing.
The noise-canceling variant can “shave off enough of the outside world” to improve the listening experience without offering the complete isolation of the Pro models.
How does the upcoming AirPods 4 compare to the previous AirPods 3?
The AirPods 4 represent an evolution of the AirPods 3 design with improved acoustics and battery life. The addition of a noise-canceling variant gives users more choice within the standard AirPods line.
The new models maintain Apple’s signature minimalist design while incorporating technological improvements under the hood.
Is there a projected timeline for the announcement of the AirPods Pro 3 release?
Based on current rumors, new AirPods models might be released either in late 2024 (September or October) or early 2025. This timeline likely refers to future models beyond the current AirPods 4.
Apple typically maintains a consistent update cycle for its products, though exact timelines can vary based on technological developments and market conditions.
What are the key differences between the upcoming AirPods 4 and the current AirPods Pro model?
The main differences between AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro involve advanced features and design elements. The AirPods Pro retain exclusive features like the hearing health capabilities that won’t be available on the standard AirPods 4 models.
The Pro model continues to offer more premium materials, better sound isolation, and additional health-tracking features compared to even the noise-canceling variant of the AirPods 4.
AirPods 4 serve as a middle ground between the basic earbuds experience and the premium offerings of the Pro line, with the noise-canceling variant bridging that gap further.
