Apple announced the AirPods 5 on Wednesday during its September event, TechCrunch reported. The new earbuds update the AirPods 4 generation first released in 2024, introducing what the company described as “best-in-class open‑ear active noise cancellation.”
The redesigned earbuds feature a new acoustic architecture and improved sound alongside upgraded adaptive active noise cancellation. Apple stated the new adaptive system delivers 50 percent better noise reduction than the AirPods 4.
Two versions will go on sale on September 18, with preorders opening Wednesday. The base AirPods 5 cost $129, while an upgraded edition with a wireless charging case costs $149, which is $30 less than the comparable prior generation.
The $149 model introduces swipe controls on the stem, marking the first time Apple has included on-stem volume adjustment on an open-ear design. That version also adds support for Qi and Apple Watch chargers, alongside an upgraded battery offering up to five hours of playback. That runtime provides one hour more playback than the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation.
Chief Executive Officer John Ternus led the "Surprise and shine" event, marking his first keynote in the top role. Ternus previously served as vice president of hardware engineering when Apple launched the original AirPods in 2016. Apple also used the keynote to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro, the foldable iPhone Duo, and Apple Watch Series 12.
