On September 9, 2026, Apple introduced AirPods 5 — new wireless headphones with an open design and active noise cancellation, which is now available in the base model at a price of 129 dollars.
The main innovation is the improved ANC, which, according to the company, removes up to 50% more external noise compared to the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation. This is achieved through a new multiport acoustic architecture and advanced computational audio processing algorithms. Transparency mode has become more natural, and Adaptive Audio automatically switches between modes depending on the environment.
AirPods 5 inherit the open design of their 2024 predecessor but feature redesigned acoustics and next-generation Adaptive EQ for richer and more detailed sound. Personalized Spatial Audio has become more immersive. Both versions support Conversation Awareness and Voice Isolation, as well as integration with Siri AI and Apple Intelligence features, including Live Translation.
The battery in the base model provides up to 4 hours of listening time with ANC and up to 20 hours with the case. The version with the wireless case offers 5 hours on a single charge and up to 22 hours in total, supporting charging from Apple Watch, Qi, and USB-C. A swipe volume control has appeared on the stem of the 149 dollar premium model.
Compared to AirPods 4, where ANC was only in the 179 dollar version, the new headphones offer noise cancellation in both configurations at a lower price. Competitors like Sony WF-C700N or Samsung Galaxy Buds FE offer similar prices, but a closed design and often shorter battery life than the open format. AirPods 5 win in the Apple ecosystem and the comfort of open-ear wearing, but fall short in maximum noise cancellation compared to the in-ear Pro models.
Pre-orders are already open, and sales will begin on September 18 in the US and more than 65 countries. For users who need affordable ANC in an open design without overpaying, AirPods 5 become significantly more attractive than the previous generation.
