Analyzing the Apple AirPods 4: What’s New and How They Perform

Prepare to be captivated! Apple has once again redefined the wireless audio experience with the arrival of the AirPods 4. This latest generation isn’t just about listening; it’s about immersing yourself in sound with richer bass, clearer highs, and the revolutionary optional Active Noise Cancellation. Seamlessly integrating with your life, and now, for the first time in the standard AirPods, offering the magic of optional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Get ready to discover the incredible features and performance packed into these must-have earbuds, available in two distinct models designed to elevate your everyday audio. Experience crystal-clear calls with Voice Isolation and a truly personalized soundscape with Spatial Audio, all powered by the advanced H2 chip.

1. Apple AirPod4 Buyer Summary
2. Official Announcement and Release Details
3. AirPods 4 Model Variants
4. In-Depth Look at Features and Specifications
5. Pricing and Purchase Information
6. Expert Reviews and Hands-on Impressions
7. Comparative Analysis
8. Reported Issues, Limitations, and User Feedback
9. Conclusion and Recommendations
10. Valuable Tables for the Report

---

1. Apple AirPod4 Buyer Summary

The Apple AirPods 4 represent the latest iteration in Apple’s popular line of wireless earbuds, marking a significant step forward by introducing optional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to the standard AirPods design for the first time. This new generation is available in two distinct models, catering to different consumer needs and budgets: the standard AirPods 4 and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. Expert reviews suggest a positive initial reception, highlighting the improved sound quality and the surprising effectiveness of ANC in the open-ear design. Positioned as a mid-range offering, the AirPods 4 aim to bridge the gap between previous non-ANC models and the premium AirPods Pro, solidifying Apple’s presence in the competitive wireless audio market. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the AirPods 4, covering their announcement, features, performance, competitive landscape, and user feedback.

2. Official Announcement and Release Details

The wait is over! Apple proudly unveiled the groundbreaking AirPods 4 during its annual iPhone launch event on Monday, September 9, 2024, alongside the highly anticipated iPhone 16. This announcement marked the arrival of the next generation of Apple’s wireless audio technology, and now you can experience it firsthand. Immediately following the event, Apple opened pre-orders for both the standard AirPods 4, priced at $129 (U.S.), and the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, priced at $179 (U.S.), available through apple.com/store and the Apple Store app in the U.S. and over 58 other countries and regions. The official in-store availability and shipping of these incredible AirPods 4 commenced on Friday, September 20, 2024. By strategically aligning the launch with its flagship iPhone, Apple ensured maximum visibility for these exceptional audio companions, making them readily available for you to enjoy.

3. AirPods 4 Model Variants

The Apple AirPods 4 are available in two primary models, each designed to meet different user preferences and budgets.

AirPods 4 (Standard): This model is priced at $129 and serves as the entry-level option in the new lineup. A key characteristic of this model is the absence of Active Noise Cancellation. However, it still incorporates several advanced features, including Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, which creates an immersive audio experience. Additionally, it features Voice Isolation for clearer calls, hands-free “Hey Siri” activation, and Siri Interactions for responding to Siri with simple head gestures. The standard AirPods 4 offer up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge, with a total of up to 30 hours of listening time when using the included Charging Case (USB-C). Both the earbuds and the charging case are rated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance.

AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): This higher-tier model is priced at $179 and incorporates several premium features. In addition to the features found in the standard model, it includes Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, and Transparency mode, offering enhanced control over the listening environment. The listening time is also up to 5 hours on a single charge (or up to 4 hours with ANC enabled), with a total of up to 30 hours (or up to 20 hours with ANC enabled) using the Wireless Charging Case (USB-C). This model’s case also features a built-in speaker for use with the Find My app, enhancing its tracking capabilities. Like the standard model, it is also IP54 rated for dust, sweat, and water resistance.

The $50 price difference between these two models reflects the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, Transparency mode, wireless charging capabilities, and the added convenience of the Find My case speaker in the higher-tier version. This strategic pricing allows Apple to effectively cater to a broader spectrum of consumers with varying feature requirements and budgetary constraints.

4. In-Depth Look at Features and Specifications

A. Audio Quality: Both AirPods 4 models are powered by Apple’s advanced H2 chip, which significantly enhances both audio fidelity and call clarity. This chip drives a completely new acoustic architecture that features an Apple-designed low-distortion driver and a custom high dynamic range amplifier. This combination results in exceptional audio detail, with richer bass and noticeably clearer high frequencies compared to previous non-Pro AirPods. Adaptive EQ is another key feature, which automatically tunes the music output to the unique characteristics of the user’s ears. Inward-facing microphones detect the audio the user is hearing, and the system then adjusts the low and midrange frequencies to deliver a consistently rich and detailed sound across various musical genres. Both models also support Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating an immersive, three-dimensional soundscape for music, movies, and games. For enhanced communication, an AAC-ELD speech codec ensures crisp, high-definition audio during FaceTime calls. Furthermore, Voice Isolation technology utilizes advanced computational audio to minimize background noise, ensuring the user’s voice remains clear during calls, even in loud or windy environments. The integration of the H2 chip across these audio features underscores its pivotal role in the improved performance and expanded capabilities of the AirPods 4. Its processing power is likely essential for the real-time operation of features like Adaptive EQ, Personalized Spatial Audio, and the sophisticated algorithms behind Voice Isolation.

B. Battery Life: The standard Apple AirPods 4 provide users with up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. When paired with the Charging Case (USB-C), the total listening time extends to an impressive 30 hours. The AirPods 4 with ANC offer a similar battery performance, providing up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge, which slightly reduces to 4 hours when Active Noise Cancellation is enabled. The total listening time with the Wireless Charging Case (USB-C) for the ANC model reaches up to 30 hours with noise control off, or 20 hours with Active Noise Cancellation active. For both models, a quick 5-minute charge in the case provides approximately 1 hour of listening time or around 45 minutes of talk time, offering a convenient solution for users needing a fast power boost. These battery life figures, consistently reported by both Apple and independent reviewers, indicate a reliable performance for everyday use. The slight decrease in listening time when ANC is enabled on the higher-tier model is an expected trade-off for the power-intensive noise cancellation feature.

C. Design and Comfort: Apple has redesigned the AirPods 4 with a strong emphasis on achieving an exceptional fit, ensuring all-day comfort, and providing greater stability in the user’s ear. The new internal architecture, coupled with a refined contour, aims to provide a more natural and secure fit for a broader range of ear shapes compared to previous generations. The stem of the AirPods has been updated with an integrated force sensor, allowing users to easily control media playback and answer calls with a simple pinch gesture. The overall design is slightly more compact than the AirPods 3. Notably, Apple has continued with the open-ear design for the standard AirPods 4, meaning they do not feature silicone ear tips. While Apple emphasizes the improved comfort and fit achieved through extensive analysis of ear shapes, the absence of interchangeable ear tips suggests that the fit experience might still vary among individuals. Although Apple claims a more universal fit, the inherent diversity in ear anatomies means that some users might still find the open-ear design less secure, particularly during more strenuous activities, compared to in-ear models that offer customizable ear tip options.

D. New Functionalities: The AirPods 4 introduce several new functionalities, with the most prominent being the optional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) available on the $179 model. This feature significantly reduces low-frequency environmental sounds, such as airplane engines and city traffic, providing a more immersive listening experience. The ANC-equipped model also includes Adaptive Audio, which intelligently blends Transparency mode and ANC in real time, dynamically adjusting the level of noise control based on the user’s surroundings. Transparency mode allows users to stay aware of their environment by letting outside sounds in, which is particularly useful for safety and situational awareness. Another new feature on the ANC model is Conversation Awareness, which intelligently senses when the user is speaking to someone nearby and automatically lowers the volume of the playing audio, returning it to normal once the conversation ends. Both models benefit from Siri Interactions, a novel hands-free control method that allows users to respond to Siri’s prompts by simply nodding their head for “yes” or shaking it for “no.” This functionality can be used to answer or decline calls, manage notifications, and more. The introduction of ANC to the standard AirPods line is a significant enhancement, bringing this previously Pro-exclusive feature to a wider audience. The Siri Interactions via head gestures represent an innovative approach to hands-free control, leveraging the advanced sensor technology and processing power of the H2 chip to offer a more intuitive and accessible user experience, particularly in situations where voice commands might be inconvenient or less effective.

E. Other Specifications: Both the AirPods 4 and their respective charging cases are rated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and exposure to light rain. They connect wirelessly using Bluetooth 5.3 technology, ensuring a stable and efficient connection. The charging case for the standard AirPods 4 utilizes a USB-C connector for charging. In contrast, the AirPods 4 with ANC come with a Wireless Charging Case (USB-C) that is also compatible with Apple Watch chargers and Qi-certified wireless chargers. This case also includes a built-in speaker that works with the Find My app to help locate the AirPods. Both models offer seamless pairing and fast switching between devices connected to the same Apple ID. Additionally, they feature in-ear detection, which automatically pauses audio playback when the AirPods are removed from the ears and resumes when they are placed back in. ¹ The adoption of USB-C charging across both AirPods 4 models reflects Apple’s broader trend towards standardizing charging ports, providing greater convenience for users with multiple Apple devices. The inclusion of a speaker in the ANC model’s charging case is a valuable addition that enhances the functionality of the Find My app, making it easier for users to locate their misplaced AirPods.

5. Pricing and Purchase Information

As previously mentioned, the Apple AirPods 4 are priced at $129 for the standard model and $179 for the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. These prices were effective upon the announcement and release of the product. The AirPods 4 are available for purchase through Apple’s official website (apple.com), the Apple Store app, and at Apple retail locations. Additionally, they can be found at various authorized retailers, including major electronics stores and online marketplaces such as Amazon and Best Buy. It is worth noting that some retailers may offer promotional deals or discounts on the AirPods 4 from time to time. Customers purchasing directly from Apple have the option to personalize their AirPods with free engraving, adding a unique touch to their new earbuds. Furthermore, Apple provides financing options, such as Apple Card Monthly Installments, allowing eligible customers to pay for their AirPods over time without incurring interest. Apple’s pricing strategy for the AirPods 4 positions them in the mid-range segment of the wireless earbud market. By offering two models at distinct price points, Apple aims to appeal to a broad audience, catering to both consumers seeking a more affordable option and those willing to invest in premium features like Active Noise Cancellation. This approach effectively bridges the gap between their previous non-ANC AirPods and the more expensive AirPods Pro lineup.

6. Expert Reviews and Hands-on Impressions

Expert reviews and initial hands-on impressions of the Apple AirPods 4 have generally been positive, highlighting several key aspects of the new earbuds.

Comfort and Fit: Many reviewers have praised the redesigned shape of the AirPods 4, noting that they fit more securely and comfortably for a wider range of users compared to previous generations. However, the continued use of an open-ear design without silicone ear tips remains a point of discussion, with some users finding it less secure for vigorous activities. Sound Quality: Reviewers generally agree that the AirPods 4 offer a noticeable improvement in sound quality compared to previous non-Pro models. The bass is reported to be richer, and the highs are clearer, contributing to a more enjoyable listening experience across various genres. While the sound quality is considered excellent for open-ear earbuds, some reviews suggest that it still doesn’t quite reach the level of the AirPods Pro 2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The inclusion of ANC in the AirPods 4 with ANC has been a standout feature, with many reviewers expressing surprise at its effectiveness given the open-ear design. While not typically as powerful as the ANC found in in-ear earbuds like the AirPods Pro 2, it is generally considered effective for reducing ambient noise in everyday scenarios like commuting or working in a moderately noisy environment. Siri Interactions: The new Siri Interactions via head gestures have been reported to work well, offering a convenient and hands-free way to manage calls and notifications. While some users might find the gestures slightly exaggerated initially, they generally provide a useful alternative to voice commands or manual controls. Battery Life: The battery life of the AirPods 4 appears to be consistent with Apple’s claims, providing sufficient listening time for most users on a single charge, with the charging case offering multiple additional charges. The slightly reduced battery life with ANC enabled on the higher-tier model is a noted but expected trade-off. Value Proposition: Many reviewers consider the AirPods 4, especially the ANC-equipped model, to offer a compelling value proposition given their features and overall performance, particularly for users within the Apple ecosystem. The introduction of ANC to the standard AirPods line at a more accessible price point than the AirPods Pro is seen as a significant advantage for many consumers.

Overall, expert reviews suggest that the AirPods 4 represent a substantial upgrade over previous non-Pro models, particularly with the inclusion of optional ANC. While they may not surpass the AirPods Pro 2 in every aspect, they offer a compelling alternative for users who prefer the open-ear design and appreciate the seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem.

7. Comparative Analysis

A. AirPods 4 vs. Previous AirPods Models: vs. AirPods 3: The AirPods 4 offer a notable advantage over the AirPods 3 with the introduction of optional Active Noise Cancellation, a feature entirely absent in the previous generation. Furthermore, the AirPods 4 feature innovative Siri Interactions via head gestures, providing a new level of hands-free control not available on the AirPods 3. The charging case for the AirPods 4 has also been redesigned to be more compact and features a capacitive touch area for pairing, a departure from the physical button found on the AirPods 3 case. In terms of audio performance, the AirPods 4 are reported to deliver improved sound quality with enhanced bass and clearer mid and high frequencies compared to their predecessor. While some tests suggest that the AirPods 3 might offer slightly longer battery life in certain scenarios, the AirPods 4 case includes Find My support, with the ANC version further benefiting from a built-in speaker for proximity finding. The AirPods 4 clearly represent a significant upgrade for users of the AirPods 3, offering compelling new features and enhancements that bring the standard AirPods line closer to the premium experience of the Pro models.

vs. AirPods Pro 2: Despite the advancements in the AirPods 4, the AirPods Pro 2 continue to offer superior Active Noise Cancellation due to their in-ear design, which, combined with silicone ear tips, provides better passive noise isolation. The in-ear design of the AirPods Pro 2 also typically provides a more secure fit, making them better suited for intense physical activities. A notable feature of the AirPods Pro 2 is the inclusion of on-bud volume adjustment, a functionality that is absent on the AirPods 4. The AirPods Pro 2 also boast advanced health-related features, such as a hearing test, hearing aid mode, and hearing protection, which are not available on the AirPods 4. While battery life can vary, the AirPods Pro 2 generally offer slightly better listening time with ANC enabled. Conversely, the AirPods 4 feature an open-ear design, which many users find more comfortable for extended wear compared to the in-ear fit of the AirPods Pro 2. Finally, the charging case of the AirPods Pro 2 includes Precision Finding with Ultra-Wideband technology, offering a more precise location tracking capability compared to the standard Find My support on the AirPods 4. Only the ANC version of the AirPods 4 offers proximity finding and a case speaker. Ultimately, the choice between the AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 depends on individual priorities. While the AirPods 4 with ANC have narrowed the gap, the AirPods Pro 2 remain the superior option for users who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation, a secure fit, and advanced health features. Users who prefer the comfort of an open-ear design and find the level of ANC offered by the AirPods 4 sufficient may find the latter a more suitable choice.

B. AirPods 4 vs. Competing Wireless Earbuds: The Apple AirPods 4 face stiff competition from a variety of wireless earbuds offered by other manufacturers, including Sony, Bose, Earfun, JBL, OnePlus, Nothing, Anker, Jabra, Sennheiser, and Beats. Key differentiators among these competing products include sound quality, noise cancellation capabilities, battery life, fit and comfort, price, ecosystem integration, and audio codec support. Some competitors might offer a more detailed or bass-heavy sound profile that caters to specific audio preferences. In terms of noise cancellation, many in-ear earbuds from competitors might provide stronger ANC performance due to their design, which offers better passive noise isolation. Battery life can also vary significantly among competitors, with some offering longer playback times on a single charge or with their charging cases. The fit and comfort experience is highly subjective, with the AirPods 4 offering an open-ear design while many competitors utilize an in-ear design with multiple ear tip sizes for a more customized fit. Price points for competing earbuds are diverse, with many options available at similar or even lower prices than the AirPods 4, offering a wide range of features. A significant advantage for the AirPods 4 is their seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, offering features like easy pairing and device switching that many competitors cannot match for Apple device users. Finally, the AirPods 4 primarily support the AAC audio codec, which might be a limitation for some Android users who prefer higher-fidelity codecs like LDAC, which are supported by certain competitors. The competitive landscape for wireless earbuds is rich and diverse, with the AirPods 4 offering a strong combination of features, particularly for users deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem. However, consumers not tied to Apple might find compelling alternatives that excel in specific areas like sound quality or noise cancellation.

8. Reported Issues, Limitations, and User Feedback

While the Apple AirPods 4 have garnered positive reviews, some users and reviewers have reported certain issues and limitations. Connectivity problems, including occasional disconnections and difficulties with pairing, have been mentioned by some users. The open-ear design, while comfortable for many, can lead to an inconsistent fit for others, potentially affecting the perceived sound balance and the effectiveness of noise cancellation on the ANC model. While generally considered good, the battery life, especially with ANC enabled, might not meet the expectations of all users, particularly those engaging in prolonged listening sessions. A frequently noted limitation is the absence of on-bud volume control, requiring users to adjust the volume through their connected device or via Siri. The Siri Interactions via head gestures, while innovative, might feel slightly unnatural or require more deliberate movements than some users prefer. Although the sound quality is generally praised as an improvement, some audiophiles might find it lacking in the depth and impact they desire, particularly in bass-heavy musical genres. Finally, it has been noted that the non-ANC version of the AirPods 4 lacks the Find My case speaker and proximity finding features, making its tracking capabilities less comprehensive compared to the ANC model and the AirPods Pro 2. These reported issues and limitations suggest that while the AirPods 4 offer significant improvements, there is still room for further refinement in future iterations. The open-ear design, in particular, presents inherent challenges in achieving a perfect fit and optimal noise cancellation for all users.

9. Conclusion and Recommendations

The Apple AirPods 4 represent a compelling evolution in Apple’s wireless earbud lineup, offering several key strengths. The improved sound quality delivers a richer and more detailed audio experience, while the introduction of optional Active Noise Cancellation in a non-Pro model for the first time broadens their appeal. For many users, the comfortable open-ear design remains a significant advantage, and the seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem continues to be a major draw. However, potential fit issues for some users due to the lack of ear tips, ANC that is not as powerful as the AirPods Pro 2, the absence of on-bud volume control, and occasional connectivity hiccups are limitations to consider.

Based on this analysis, the following recommendations can be made: Existing AirPods (non-Pro) users: The AirPods 4 represent a worthwhile upgrade, particularly for those seeking improved sound quality and the option of Active Noise Cancellation. The new Siri Interactions and redesigned case are also notable enhancements. Users who dislike in-ear earbuds: The AirPods 4 with ANC offer a compelling option for those who prefer an open-ear design but still desire the benefits of noise cancellation. While the ANC might not be as potent as in-ear solutions, it is surprisingly effective for this form factor. Users prioritizing top-tier ANC and a secure fit: For individuals whose primary concern is the most effective noise cancellation and a fit that remains secure during vigorous activities, the AirPods Pro 2 remain the superior choice due to their in-ear design with silicone ear tips. Android users: While the AirPods 4 are compatible with Android devices via Bluetooth, users might miss out on certain Apple-specific features and could potentially find earbuds from other brands that offer better audio codec support for their devices.

Ultimately, the AirPods 4 strike a favorable balance between features, comfort (for many), and price, positioning them as a strong contender in the mid-range wireless earbud market, especially for consumers deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem. The introduction of ANC to the standard AirPods line is a strategic move by Apple, broadening the appeal of this popular product line while reinforcing the value proposition for its loyal customer base.

10. Valuable Tables for the Report

Table 1: AirPods 4 Model Comparison

Table 2: AirPods 4 vs. Previous AirPods Models

Table 3: AirPods 4 with ANC vs. Key Competitors