Apple has introduced AirPods 5 with active noise cancellation in an open-ear design, making ANC available in its entry-level AirPods line. Apple announced the earbuds on September 9, while MacRumors reported the price, battery options and feature differences between the two models.
Apple says the new multiport acoustic architecture and updated computational audio remove up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with ANC. The company also describes a more natural Transparency mode, which is intended to let nearby voices and sounds pass through without making the user remove the earbuds.
Adaptive Audio can blend noise cancellation and Transparency mode as conditions change. Conversation Awareness lowers playback volume when the wearer begins speaking. These are software-controlled listening features, so their real-world benefit will depend on fit, surroundings and the connected device.
The standard AirPods 5 model costs $129 in the United States. A $149 version includes a Wireless Charging Case, on-stem volume control and longer battery life. Apple says customers can preorder both models, with store availability beginning September 18.
The charging-case model can provide up to five hours of listening with ANC enabled on one charge, according to Apple. The case extends listening time to up to 22 hours with ANC. It supports Apple Watch chargers, Qi-compatible chargers and USB-C.
AirPods 5 also support hands-free Siri AI features and Live Translation when paired with compatible Apple hardware and current software. Apple says head gestures can be used to respond to Siri. Those features require the necessary Apple Intelligence support and may vary by language or region.
Apple is positioning the earbuds as a lower-cost route to ANC rather than a replacement for AirPods Pro. The confirmed price, open-ear fit and September 18 availability give buyers clear points to compare, while independent reviews will show how the design handles noise, comfort and battery life.
