Yesterday, during the long-awaited Apple Event 2024the Cupertino company finally presented the New AirPods 4 and an updated version of the AirPods Maxconfirming many of the rumors that had been circulating in the previous weeks. These devices have arrived with a series of new features that, although not radical, aim to improve the daily user experience, adapting to the needs of modern users.
It’s been three years since the launch of the AirPods 3, and the new AirPods 4 are presented as a logical evolution, maintaining the essence that has made them a benchmark in the market, but adding notable improvements. The first big news is that the AirPods 4 come in two versions: an entry-level version, which replaces the older AirPods 2, and an intermediate version, which takes the place of the AirPods 3. This allows Apple to cover a broader spectrum of users, from those looking for something basic, to those who want more sophisticated audio without going as far as the price of the AirPods Pro.
The entry-level version of the AirPods 4, priced at 149 eurosmaintains a familiar design with shorter stems and a more universal fit. While it lacks active noise cancellation (ANC), its new audio architecture will deliver richer bass and more immersive sound, improving the experience compared to its predecessors.
On the other hand, the intermediate version of the AirPods 4, which costs 199 eurosdoes incorporate the long-awaited active noise cancellation, a feature that until now was reserved only for the AirPods Pro. This addition makes the headphones a very attractive option for those looking for noise isolation in everyday environments, such as on public transport or in bustling offices, without having to invest in the most expensive model.
News in audio and design
In addition to noise cancellation options, both AirPods 4 models bring with them improvements in sound quality. Among these improvements is the Customizing spatial audiowhich adjusts the listening experience based on the user’s environment and preferences, and the voice isolation functionwhich filters out background noise to deliver crisper, clearer sound during calls.
The design of these headphones has also been updated. The new ones are more comfortable and have a shorter stem, similar to that of the AirPods Prowhich improves ergonomics and also offers a more secure fit. This is ideal for those who use them during physical activities or in constant movement.
Apple has introduced new ways to interact with Siri on AirPods 4. Now, Users can respond to Siri’s questions by simply nodding their headswithout the need to speak. This feature is especially useful in situations where speaking is not convenient or possible, improving interaction with the voice assistant in a more natural and fluid way.
Active Noise Cancellation in the high-end model of AirPods 4 not only eliminates background noise, but also Automatically adjusts the volume based on the user’s environment. In addition, the new function of «Conversation awareness» Automatically lowers the volume of the headphones when the user starts talking, allowing an effortless transition between listening to music and having a conversation.
One of the most anticipated changes was Apple’s move to the USB-C connectorand the AirPods 4 have been no exception. Both models now support charging via USB-C, leaving the Lightning connector behind, marking the end of an era for Apple. The mid-range version of the AirPods 4 also offers wireless charging and a case that includes a built-in speaker to make it easier to locate the earphones via the “Find My” feature.
AirPods Max: discreet but important evolution
The AirPods Max, meanwhile, have received a more modest updatebut no less relevant. The main novelty is the incorporation of the USB-C charging portin line with the rest of Apple’s product line. Plus, they’re now available in a range of new colors, including a vibrant orange and an elegant Starlight huewhich will undoubtedly appeal to those users who value both style and functionality.
Even though the AirPods Max continue to use the H1 chipthe inclusion of the USB-C connector and the introduction of new colors reinforce its position in the market as one of the most premium headphones available. However, Those hoping for notable improvements in sound technology or revolutionary new features might be a little disappointed.as Apple has chosen to maintain a more conservative evolution.
The long-awaited launch of the AirPods Max has brought with it some updates, albeit limited ones. The price of these headphones is 579 euroswhich is still a considerable investment. While Apple has added support for USB-C charging and introduced new colors like Orange and Starlight, the lack of significant improvements in areas like sound quality or advanced features may leave some wondering whether this upgrade is really worth the cost.
Compared to the competition, these helmets continue to stand out for their design and build quality, but Its price remains a factor that could scare away potential buyers looking for a more balanced quality-price ratio.
AirPods Pro 2: Health Advances and Comparison with the New AirPods 4
While the AirPods Pro 2 haven’t seen any noticeable physical changes in this update, Apple has introduced a number of new health-related features that significantly increase their value. Now, AirPods Pro 2 feature a hearing protection feature that automatically limits the volume to safe levels, and also includes a hearing test that can be shared with a doctor.allowing closer monitoring of the user’s hearing health. Additionally, AirPods Pro 2 can act as a clinically approved hearing aid, a a feature that Apple hopes will receive approval from the FDA and other regulatory bodies in more than 100 countries this fall.
The arrival of the AirPods 4 has inevitably drawn comparisons to the Pro 2, especially since the new line includes for the first time a model with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a feature previously reserved only for the Pro. However, Although both devices share some features, there are key differences that could influence users’ decisions.
Active noise cancellation: Does it change much?
AirPods 4 with ANC offer noise cancellation for the first time in a non-in-ear headphone modelwhich is a big step forward for Apple. However, the effectiveness of this noise cancellation is not as robust as that of the AirPods Pro 2. According to Apple, AirPods Pro 2 can cancel about twice as much noise compared to AirPods 4This is partly because AirPods Pro 2 are designed with an in-ear seal that improves the effectiveness of the ANC.
Both models, Both the Pro 2 and Pro 4 with ANC are equipped with the H2 chipallowing them to share characteristics such as Transparency Mode, Adaptive Audio, and Conversation Awareness. These features automatically adjust the noise cancellation level based on the user’s environment and activities, intelligently improving the listening experience. However, It is important to note that the basic AirPods 4, without ANC, do not include any of these advanced features.which could be a deciding factor for the most demanding users.
Charging case: subtle but important differences
The charging case also varies between different earbud models. The basic AirPods 4 include a charging case with a USB-C connector, but no support for wireless charging.. In contrast, AirPods 4 with ANC include a USB-C case that also supports wireless charging via Qi chargers or the Apple Watch charger, and also has a built-in speaker to make it easier to locate the headphones using the “Find My” function.
On the other hand, AirPods Pro 2 case is the most advanced, with support for MagSafewhich allows magnetic alignment with compatible chargers, and includes a lanyard loop, a feature not present on the AirPods 4 cases.
Battery life: which option offers more autonomy?
As for battery life, AirPods 4 without ANC offer up to 5 hours of listening on a single chargesimilar to the third generation ones. However, When ANC is enabled on AirPods 4, battery life is reduced to just 4 hours of listening timewhich It is noticeably less compared to the 6 hours offered by AirPods Pro 2 with ANC activeThis difference can be significant for those users looking for greater autonomy during extended listening sessions.
Despite these differences, The charging case of all models can recharge the earphones approximately six times.offering up to 30 hours total time listening. However, sIf battery life is a priority for you, the Pro 2 might be the best option.
Final reflection
Despite the exciting new features Apple has introduced to its headphone line, such as the inclusion of noise cancellation in more affordable models and improvements in audio customization, it’s hard not to wonder whether these advancements really justify an upgrade. The move to USB-C is welcome and necessary, but the lack of major improvements in battery life and the noticeable difference in noise cancellation effectiveness between the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 might leave some users dissatisfied.
Besides, Apple’s strategy of fragmenting its product line with differentiated features between models could make consumers feel compelled to spend more to get essential featureswhich raises the question of whether the company is truly innovating or simply tweaking its offering to maximize revenue.
