AirPods 4 in practical test: noise cancellation for earplug haters

For the first time, Apple’s AirPods for the masses come in two different versions. Today, the company announced its AirPods 4 earbuds, which start at $129. But there’s also a higher-end model for $179 that combines this open-back design with active noise cancellation. We’ve seen other brands try this before—most recently Samsung with the Galaxy Buds 3—and I’m very curious to see how well Apple’s implementation will be able to combat city street and aircraft noise without the need for the in-ear seal provided by silicone tips.

I just got a look at the AirPods 4 here at Apple’s event, and the earbuds themselves look and feel quite similar to their predecessors, although Apple’s website says the contours have been refined for a more secure fit. The charging case is now smaller and lighter than ever, and if you opt for the ANC version, the case supports wireless charging and has a Find My location tracking speaker.

The internal acoustic architecture has been redesigned for improved sound, and the AirPods 4 inherit many of the software tricks from the AirPods Pro, including adaptive audio, transparency mode, and conversation detection. Much of this is possible because they contain Apple’s H2 chip.

The AirPods 4 will be available for pre-order on Friday alongside the new iPhone 16 lineup and will be in stores on September 20. Stay tuned for our full review in the next few days. I’m excited to see how the ANC performs. Will it actually be useful? Can it possibly compete with the AirPods Pro and their traditional in-ear fit? We’ll find out soon enough.

Correction, September 9: The article has been updated with the correct prices.