Apple (AAPL) is updating its AirPods line, announcing new entry-level AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation, improved AirPods Pro 2 with built-in hearing aid functionality and new colors for the AirPods Max over-the-ear headphones during its annual iPhone event on Monday at its headquarters in Cupertino, California.
The AirPods Pro 2 have new hearing protection features that reduce louder, intermittent noises while preserving the sound of what you hear. Apple says the AirPods Pro 2 also include a new five-minute, clinically validated hearing test. When you’re done, you’ll get your results, which you can then share with your doctor.
According to Apple, 75% of people diagnosed with hearing loss have not received the support they need. Apple says the new AirPods Pro will receive an over-the-counter hearing aid feature. The company expects to receive FDA approval for the hearing health features soon.
The AirPods 4 get Apple’s H2 chip, spatial audio, and improved acoustics. The company also says that when you’re on a call with the AirPods, you can now shake your head to accept or reject the call. The AirPods 4’s charging case is also smaller, but still has 30 hours of battery life and has a USB-C charging port.
Apple’s AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation also get a number of new features from the AirPods Pro, including call detection and a wireless charging case, while the AirPods Pro Max come in a range of stylish new colors.
Apple’s AirPods fall into the Wearables, Home and Accessories business segment, along with the Apple Watch, Apple TV hardware and third-party Apple accessories. In the most recent quarter, the segment generated revenue of $8.09 billion, slightly below the $8.2 billion it generated in the same quarter last year, according to Apple. The business generated $39.8 billion in 2023, compared to the $41.2 billion it generated in 2022.
Email Daniel Howley at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at @DanielHowley.
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