Apple AirPods 5: Price, features, and release date

Apple announced the AirPods 5 wireless earbuds on Wednesday at its "Surprise and Shine" event, featuring active noise cancellation on both models at lower prices than the previous generation. The AirPods 5 start at $129 for the base model with ANC, matching the price of the non-ANC AirPods 4, while the higher-tier version costs $149, $30 less than the AirPods 4 with ANC. Both models offer 50% more noise cancellation, improved transparency mode, and updated adaptive EQ for better spatial audio. The $149 model adds a wireless charging case and stem volume controls. Preorders are available now, with a release date of Friday, Sept. 18. The higher-tier model offers five hours of battery life per charge with ANC, one hour more than the AirPods 4, and supports charging via Apple Watch, Qi, or USB-C chargers.