Apple expanded its wireless audio lineup at its Cupertino “Surprise and Shine” event, officially unveiling the AirPods 5. Designed specifically for listeners who prefer an open-ear fit over rubber silicone tips, this update brings flagship active noise suppression into entry-level pricing.
Quick Summary: The Apple AirPods 5 feature an open-fit design powered by the new H3 wireless chip, bringing active noise cancellation (ANC) with 50% greater noise reduction than previous non-Pro generations. Available in a $129 base ANC model and a $149 wireless charging edition, these earbuds offer high-end sound architecture, Siri AI integration, and live translation for budget-conscious Apple users.
Key Specifications and Model Breakdown
Apple divided the fifth-generation open-ear lineup into two distinct pricing options, both improving upon the hardware standard set by earlier iterations. The primary architectural upgrade centers around a new multiport acoustic design paired with next-generation Adaptive EQ to customize audio output based on ear structure.
Under the hood, both models incorporate Apple’s H3 wireless chip. This processor drives active noise reduction capabilities and enables advanced software features, including real-time Live Translation and full Siri AI voice support.
| Feature | AirPods 5 (Base Model) | AirPods 5 (Wireless Charging Model) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129 / AU$219 | $149 / AU$249 |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes (50% improved reduction) | Yes (50% improved reduction) |
| Charging Case Type | Standard Wired Case | Wireless Charging Case |
| Stem Controls | Standard Force Sensor | Force Sensor with Volume Swipe |
| Earbud Battery Life (ANC On) | Up to 4 Hours | Up to 5 Hours |
| Total Battery Life (w/ Case) | Up to 20 Hours | Up to 20 Hours |
| Audio Chipset | H3 Wireless Chip | H3 Wireless Chip |
Design Upgrades and Functional Differences
Integrating active noise cancellation into an open-fit housing represents a major technical focal point for the AirPods 5. Apple redesigned the internal acoustic housing to achieve up to 50% more ambient noise attenuation than the prior non-ANC generation, filling a middle ground for users who dislike deep ear-canal insertion.
The upgraded $149 variant introduces stem-based volume swipe gestures, marking the first time touch controls for volume adjustment have appeared on Apple’s open-ear design. This tier also adds native wireless charging support to the carrying case.
Single-charge battery endurance differs slightly between the two options. The entry-level model delivers 4 hours of playback with active noise cancellation engaged, whereas the upgraded model offers up to 5 hours. Both configurations provide a maximum of 20 hours total playback time when combining the earbuds with their respective charging cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the AirPods 5 use silicone ear tips?
No, the AirPods 5 retain an open-ear fit without silicone ear tips. They are designed for users who want active noise cancellation without sealing off the ear canal.
What are the main differences between the $129 and $149 AirPods 5 models?
The $149 upgraded model adds a wireless charging case, swipe controls on the stem for volume adjustments, and up to 5 hours of listening time with ANC turned on, compared to 4 hours on the $129 base model.
Do the AirPods 5 support live translation and Siri AI?
Yes, driven by the H3 wireless chip, both configurations of the AirPods 5 natively support full Siri AI commands and live language translation features.