Apple AirPods: Latest Models, Features, and Potential Health Benefits

Apple announced its newest AirPods - what to know and how to order

Apple recently unveiled its new lineup of tech launches at the company's Apple Event held this past week. Among the announcements was the latest iteration of the brand's bestselling AirPods. The AirPods 4, the 4th generation of AirPods, will be the newest wireless earbud to join the Apple family, along with the AirPods Pro 2. They are both currently available for pre-order, shipping later this month. According to Apple, the AirPods 4 earbuds differ from other AirPod models in a multitude of ways, starting with how they're designed; they now have a shorter stem and a more "refined" shape of the earbud tip, meant to sit more comfortably in your ears than previous versions. Apple also made upgrades to the charging case for the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 with active noise cancelation. It's now 10% smaller and can be charged with a USB-C cable, which Apple updated it's newest phones to use, an Apple watch charger or a Qi-certified charger. Plus, it delivers up to 30 hours of battery life. However, one of the biggest changes the brand announced was the addition of "hearing protection modes." The new Airpods Pro 2 will have the added feature of updated hearing protection modes, the ability to test your hearing from home and a hearing aid built-in. The new Apple AirPods are just one of the number of products and new features introduced at the event. The tech giant also announced it was rolling out an updated version of the AirPods Max, iPhone 16 -- which comes in Plus, Pro and Pro Max versions -- and an update to its Apple Watch. It also is coming out with its own version of AI nicknamed "Apple Intelligence." The new earbuds are available in versions with active-noise-canceling and without. The active noise cancelation version includes transparency and adaptive audio modes, each offering unique settings to ensure high-quality audio during phone calls, while on runs or when wanting absolute silence, according to the brand. The standard edition does not include these settings. The Apple AirPods 4 are also equipped with Apple's conversation awareness setting, that allows users to hear their surroundings while wearing the earbuds. Apple says this feature is most useful when in settings where you still need to remain aware, such as city sidewalks, the airport, or on public transit. Plus, phone calls will remain crystal clear for both parties thanks to the included H2 chip, that prioritizes your voice rather than background noise. Both versions of the Apple AirPods 4 promise up to five hours of listening on a single charge, and are dust, sweat and water-resistant according to the brand. Apple is introducing new upgrades to its AirPod Pro's- with more of an emphasis on hearing health. Coming this fall, users will have the option to turn on settings that promote safer listening levels and modes. This version of AirPods even has an increased battery life, with up to six hours of listening off a single charge. The Apple AirPods 4 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 are currently available for pre-order, and will be able to purchase on Sept. 20. Simply select the version you want on the site, and they will ship or can be picked up in-store starting on Sept. 20. Available for pre-order now, and available on Sept. 20, this upgraded addition to their Apple Watch line includes improved health benefits and a number of different ways to further customize preferences to match any active lifestyle. Apple notes that this edition is their slimmest watch, yet has the largest display, adding that it's also their fastest-charging watch, going from 0 to 80% in just 30 minutes. Made for the ultimate adventurer, Apple says this new and improved version of their Ultra watch has the most accurate GPS, meaning you can log runs, hikes, swims and more with more accurate location information. It's even designed to withstand any activity, thanks to its durable, titanium case and water-resistance feature. It promises up to 36 hours of use, and an extended battery life of up to 72 hours when on low power modes. Like clockwork, Apple's latest iPhone model was announced at their annual Apple Event, with new features such as "Apple Intelligence," a Camera Control button dedicated for managing photo settings, a new Ultra Wide camera lens and the promises of a longer battery life. You can pre-order it starting on Sept. 13th, and it will become available to order on Sept. 20th. Writer Emma Stessman was appalled (and disgusted) at the amount of debris, dust and gunk she removed from her AirPods after using this tool to clean them. Complete with a metal pen tip tool, flocking sponge and a brush, this all-in-one tool makes it easy to keep them looking spotless. iPhone 15 and 16 models require a USB-C charger- something that's different compared to previous models. Your phone will go from dead to 60% in the span of 30 minutes with this 10-ft. long charger, according to the brand. This Apple accessory earned the award for best tech for checked bags during Shop TODAY's 2024 Travel Gear Awards, allowing editors peace of mind when traveling- especially internationally. " I have three -- one on the keys to my apartment, one on the keys to my mom's house and one in my suitcase for travel," says associate editor Kamari Stewart. "I'm so afraid of losing those things so I love to be able to double check and make sure they are where I think they are, especially when i'm traveling." A more standard version of AirPods, these ones promise up to five hours of listening off of a single charge and be able to switch effortlessly between Apple products such as iPhones, iPads, Macbooks and more. They're currently 31% off, making them less than $100. Monitor key health information such as heart rate, or keep track of workout trends such as steps walked, amount of minutes per day spent active and more with an Apple Watch, that also has fall and crash detection in case of emergencies. This wearable tech can be customized to your preferences, with the ability to change the band and the interface, to access apps essential to you. Save $100 or more on this version of Apple's iPad- that's available in either 64 or 256 gigabyte options. The brand promises a battery that will lat you all day, no matter if you're streaming shows while on a road trip, or taking meetings. It even employs the brands ultra wide camera lens for taking photos and videos, that you can proudly show off on its 10.2" screen. The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers. As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.

Apple AirPods: A comprehensive buyer's guide for fall 2024

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. Buying Apple AirPods wireless earbuds can be confusing. There are three current models with similar names (and that look nearly identical), but each offers a different collection of features. And there's a fourth model that looks nothing like the other three, with an over-the-ear (headphone) style. If you've had your eye on Apple AirPods wireless earbuds or the AirPods Max headphones, but have no clue which model to purchase, we've got you covered. This comprehensive buyer's guide highlights all of the AirPod earbud and headphone models currently available in 2024 and explains the key differences between each of them. Apple makes some of the best over-the-ear headphones and best headphones with spatial audio support you can buy. Apple currently offers four versions of the Apple AirPods. Your options include: Pro Tip: Some retailers are still selling older versions of the Apple AirPods, including the AirPods (2nd Generation) and AirPods (3rd Generation). These have since been replaced by the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, so while they may be less expensive, the older versions lack the latest technologies offered by Apple's current lineup of wireless earbuds. Release date: 2022 | Battery life: Up to 6 hours | Battery life with case: Up to 30 hours | Wireless charging: Yes | Driver size: 11mm | Quick charge: 5 mins in case offers up to 1 hour of additional listening/talk time | Charging port on the case: USB Type-C | Water & sweat resistant: IP54 | Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking: Yes | Active noise cancellation: Yes | Adaptive audio: Yes | Conversation awareness: Yes | Earbud dimensions: 1.22 x 0.86 x 0.94 inches | Earbud weight: 0.19 ounces | Case dimensions: 1.78 x 2.39 x 0.85 inches | Case weight: 1.79 ounces | Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 | Audio chip: Apple H2 | Hearing aid and hearing protection functionality: Yes Out of the all the Apple AirPods options, this is the model we recommend the most highly. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 integrate more features that enable the earbuds to produce significantly better sound quality and overall performance. Don't let the release date of these earbuds fool you. Apple continues to update their firmware to provide them with cutting-edge new features, as you're about to discover. With these earbuds, you get features like adaptive audio, pro-level active noise cancellation, a transparency mode, a conversation awareness feature and onboard touch controls. Other notable features include voice isolation, personalized volume, adaptive EQ and loud sound reduction. These AirPods are IP54 rated for dust, sweat and water resistance, so you can definitely wear them at the gym or while working out. The pro-level active noise cancellation feature does a really good job drowning out (and often eliminating) ambient noise, even when you're not listening to audio. When you are listening to music or audio that supports it, the ANC works in conjunction with the spatial audio (with dynamic head tracking) feature to deliver lossless audio with ultra-low latency. As a result, the high-fidelity audio these AirPods produce is far more immersive, robust, and lifelike than what's offered by most other earbuds. And thanks to the Adaptive Audio feature, Conversation mode and Transparency mode, you can retain some situational awareness or converse with people in the real world when needed. The audio you're listening to and ANC will adapt automatically, allowing you to have a conversation with someone nearby, while ANC still works in the background to reduce unwanted loud noises. Meanwhile, these earbuds learn and adapt to your personal preferences when you're using them in various environments. As a result, you'll enjoy your customized audio options without having to tinker with the controls. Another feature we like that's built into the AirPods Pro 2 earbuds is the touch controls you can utilize by tapping or sliding your finger along the step of an earbud. Of course, you also get the seamless switching between Apple devices and access to Siri (and Apple's latest AI functionality offered by Siri). Plus, you get the option to have Siri read incoming text messages or emails, or alert you of urgent app-specific notifications while you're wearing these AirPods. Out of the three AirPod models currently available, our recommendation is to choose the AirPods Pro 2. The good news is that while their suggested retail price is $249, we've seen them regularly on sale for $190. Pro Tip: While their names are similar, the recently discontinued second-generation AirPods ($89) are vastly different than the Apple AirPods Pro 2, which are currently Apple's top-of-the-line wireless earbuds. It's the AirPods Pro 2 that we most highly recommend. This fall, Apple AirPods Pro 2 will receive a free firmware upgrade that will allow the earbuds to act as full-featured over-the-counter hearing aids for those with low to moderate hearing loss. The feature requires you to connect the AirPods Pro 2 to an Apple iPhone first. You can then conduct a clinical-grade hearing test at home. In just a few minutes, your iPhone will be able to determine your level of hearing loss and automatically adjust the AirPods Pro 2 to function as personalized hearing aids. When you use the earbuds to participate in hands-free calls or listen to audio, the earbuds will automatically adapt to your hearing loss and your surroundings to provide audio at the ideal level for you. Using the AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid feature, you can fine-tune and balance amplification and tone anytime, or allow the iPhone and AirPods to automatically make adjustments on your behalf, without you having to tinker with controls. At the same time, the AirPods Pro 2 will offer a new hearing protection feature that will identify and muffle loud sounds in your environment. The earbuds will now analyze intermittent noise at 48,000 times per second and ensure the sounds in your environment are heard at a safe volume level. All this makes the Apple AirPods Pro 2 a very attractive choice to those looking for a budget hearing aid, and for those who want a discreet hearing aid that doesn't look like a hearing aid. Release date: September 2024 | Battery life: Up to 5 hours | Battery life with case: Up to 30 hours | Wireless charging: No | Quick charge: 5 mins in case offers up to 1 hour additional listening time | Charging port on case: USB Type-C | Water & sweat resistant: IP54 | Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking: Yes | Active noise cancellation: No | Adaptive audio: No | Conversation awareness: No | Earbud dimensions: 1.19 x 0.72 x 0.71 inches | Earbud weight: 0.15 ounces | Case dimensions: 1.82 x 1.97 x 0.83 inches | Case weight: 1.14 ounces | Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 | Audio chip: Apple H2 | Hearing aid and hearing protection functionality: No Priced at $129, the AirPods 4 lack active noise cancellation and a transparency mode, features our in-house audio experts highly recommend. These earbuds provide personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking. This means that audio from TV shows and movies, as well as music and podcasts, will sound as if they're happening all around you. This provides a far more immersive listening experience compared to generic stereo earbuds. In addition to being able to control the AirPods 4 using the Apple equipment they're paired with, such as your iPhone or Apple Watch, you can also use Siri voice commands or the integrated force sensors found in each earbud's stem. From the AirPods 4, you can expect up to five hours of listening time per charge. However, the charging case allows you to recharge the AirPods up to six times without needing an external power source. This gives you up to 30 hours of listening time. Thanks to the quick charge feature, just a five-minute charge provides an additional one hour of listening time or 45 minutes of talk time. The case that comes with the Apple AirPods 4 does not support wireless charging. The AirPods themselves are IP54 rated for dust, sweat and water resistance. Other notable features include voice isolation and adaptive EQ. Each earbud is equipped with dual beamforming microphones and an inward-facing microphone. Together, these provide voice clarity when participating in hands-free phone calls or video calls. Compared to the now discontinued AirPods (2nd Generation) and AirPods (3rd Generation), the AirPods 4 rely on the Apple H2 chip, instead of the older H1 chip. You also get personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking that was included with the AirPods (3rd Generation), but not the AirPods (2nd Generation). You can also expect a longer battery life -- now up to 30 hours using the charging case, compared to 24 hours with the AirPods (2nd Generation). You also get an IP54 rating for dust, sweat and water resistance with the AirPods 4, which is something the AirPods (2nd Generation) did not offer. This IP rating has also been enhanced, compared to the AirPods (3rd Generation). What's lacking from the AirPods 4: This version of Apple's AirPods lacks active noise cancellation and a wireless charging case. These are features found in the AirPods 4 with Active Noice Cancellation. Also missing from these earbuds are the over-the-counter hearing aid and hearing protection functions offered by the AirPods Pro 2. Release date: September 2024 | Battery life: Up to 5 hours | Battery life with case: Up to 30 hours | Wireless charging: Yes | Quick charge: 5 mins in case offers up to 1 hour additional listening time | Charging port on case: USB Type-C | Water & sweat resistant: IP54 | Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking: Yes | Active noise cancellation: Yes | Adaptive audio: Yes | Conversation awareness: Yes | Earbud dimensions: 1.19 x 0.72 x 0.71 inches | Earbud weight: 0.0.15 ounces | Case dimensions: 1.82 x 1.97 x 0.83 inches | Case weight: 1.22 ounces | Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 | Audio chip: Apple H2 | Hearing aid and hearing protection functionality: No From the outside, the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation look identical. However, there are two key differences between these wireless earbud options. First, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation feature, you guessed it, active noise cancellation (ANC). This is a much-sought-after feature the regular AirPods 4 do not offer. ANC allows the earbuds to digitally eliminate unwanted ambient sounds, so you can focus on the audio you want to hear. If you plan to use the earbuds in a noisy environment, we highly recommend earbuds with ANC. Because these earbuds offer ANC, they're also equipped with Adaptive Audio, a Transparency Mode and a Conversation Awareness feature. When needed, you can have situational awareness of your surroundings and communicate with people nearby without having to take the AirPods out of your ears or manually pause the audio that's playing. Second, the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation come with a wireless charging case. With this case, you can keep your AirPods powered for up to 30 hours without needing an external power source. In addition, being able to plug the case into a power source using a supplied USB Type-C cable, the case works with any Qi-compatible wireless charging pad or an Apple Watch charger. For the difference in price between the AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, this is the version we recommend if you can afford it. However, the AirPods Pro 2 continue to be our top pick. What's lacking from the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: As Apple's mid-priced AirPods option, this version of the earbuds lacks the over-the-counter hearing aid and hearing protection features offered by the AirPods Pro 2. The overall sound quality and performance is also not as good as what you can expect from Apple's top-of-the-line earbuds. Release date: 2020 | Battery life: Up to 20 hours | Wireless charging: No | Driver size: 40mm | Quick charge: 5 mins in case offers up to 1.5 hours additional listening time | Water & sweat resistant: No | Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking: Yes | Active noise cancellation: Yes | Adaptive audio: No | Conversation awareness: No | Headphone dimensions: 7.37 x 6.64 x 3.28 inches | Headphone weight: 13.6 ounces | Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 | Hearing aid and hearing protection functionality: No Available in five colors, the AirPods Max are full-size, over-the-ear wireless headphones (not earbuds) that offer many of the features of the AirPods Pro 2, but improve on several of their functions to provide a wonderfully immersive listening experience. Among the features that make these headphones stand out are their active noise cancellation, personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, adaptive EQ, their ability to generate high-fidelity audio and their onboard controls. You also get 40mm drivers that can produce even fuller-sounding audio than AirPods earbuds. However, these headphones are not sweat and water-resistant. The silicone rubber "smart case" that comes with them is designed to protect the headphone's earcups only. From a comfort standpoint, the AirPods Max feature cushioned earcups that form a seal around the ears using memory foam. You also get a lightweight headband that provides a snug fit for virtually any head size and shape. The frame of these headphones is built using durable stainless steel, while the outside of the earcups feature anodized aluminum. Just as with the AirPods earbuds, the AirPods Max can be controlled using options integrated into the operating system of the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and all Macs. Onboard the right earcup, there's a digital crown that can be pressed or rotated to easily handle a variety of tasks, like answering a call or adjusting the volume of whatever audio you're listening to. Unlike other wireless, noise-canceling headphones on the market from other brands (which also work with your other Apple gear, including your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, MacBook and/or iMac), the AirPods Max do not have an on/off switch. Instead, they automatically turn on and pair with the Apple device you're using as soon as you place them on your head. These headphones utilize Apple's H1 headphone chip (not the H2) in each ear cup. On the bottom of the right earcup, the AirPods Max are now equipped with a USB Type-C port. The AirPods Max are definitely premium-level headphones and their price reflects that (even when they're on sale). What we like about these headphones is that Apple users get a variety of exclusive features, like auto-pairing with your other Apple gear and the ability to track the location of the headphones using Apple's Find My service. Yes, the sound quality these headphones offers is really impressive -- especially when you're listening to content that supports Dolby Atmos or spatial audio. This, combined with the dynamic head tracking and active noise cancellation provide a high level of immersion that's most obvious when watching movies or listening to certain highly-produced music. The AirPods Max also do an impressive job when you're using them for hands-free calling, video calls or when participating in virtual meetings. The headphones are equipped with a total of nine microphones. Since their release, Apple has provided multiple firmware updates so these headphones continue to provide a premium listening experience when used with any of Apple's latest gear, such as an iPhone 16 smartphone or Apple Watch Series 10 smartwatch. That said, the price of the AirPods Max is high, considering you can easily find equally high-end headphones from premium audio brands like Sony, Bose, Bang & Olufsen and Bowers & Wilkins that offer the same or even better overall sound quality and noise cancellation performance for equal or even slightly less money. These competitors lack the exclusive features offered to Apple users and not all support spatial audio with dynamic head tracking (although many of the latest models do). So, if you're looking for premium quality headphones, we certainly recommend the AirPods Max, but you should consider some of your other options as well since what will work best for you is partially a matter of personal preference based on the headphones' appearance and overall design. When it comes to shopping for wireless earbuds, you have a ton of really good options from brands like Sony, Bose, Bang & Olufsen, Bowers & Wilkins, Beats, Jabra and countless others. However, only the Apple AirPods offer a collection of unique features and functions exclusively for Apple iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, MacBook and iMac users. Here's a rundown of the features and functions all AirPods have in common: First and foremost, AirPods are wireless and designed to provide a clear and robust audio listening experience, whether you're enjoying music, podcasts, audiobooks, audio from TV shows or movies, sound from games, or any other type of audio content. Of course, all of the latest AirPods models work seamlessly with Apple Music. Unlike most wireless earbuds, you do not need a separate mobile app to manage AirPods. The ability to control them is built into the iOS, iPadOS, MacOS and WatchOS operating systems. As a result, you can listen to any audio generated from any iPhone, iPad, MacBook, iMac or Apple Watch without having to install any special drivers. All AirPod models support the Siri digital assistant when they're paired with any iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, MacBook or iMac. This allows you to control your music and audio streaming using voice commands. You can also initiate hands-free calls, dictate text messages, issue Siri voice commands, or ask Siri questions while wearing at least one AirPod. All of the latest Apple Intelligence artificial intelligence functionality that's accessible using Siri works with all current AirPod models. When at least one AirPod is in an ear and paired with your iPhone, you can participate in hands-free calls. However, when you're participating in video calls or virtual meetings via any Apple computer or mobile device, wearing AirPods allows you to be heard more clearly and also hear everything that's transpiring. If you're in a noisy area, the AirPods will help to eliminate some (or all) of that ambient noise. Once you initially pair new AirPods with one of your Apple devices, they will then automatically pair with all of your other compatible Apple equipment. Then, as you switch between your Apple mobile devices and computers, your AirPods will automatically pair with whichever device you're actively using. All AirPods earbuds are dust, sweat and water resistant. This does not mean you should drop them in water or wear them while you're swimming, however. But if they happen to get wet, you won't damage them. If you need to clean your AirPods (which is something we recommend you do occasionally), Apple's website offers guidance about what types of cleaning materials you should use to avoid damaging the earbuds or their case. The AirPods Max headphones are not water resistant. All AirPods support Bluetooth wireless connectivity, so they can be paired with compatible Apple and non-Apple devices. If you accidentally misplace your AirPods or leave them behind, use the Find My service to quickly locate them. You can do this from any Apple device that has the Find My app installed, or visit the iCloud website using any web browser from any internet-connected computer, sign in using your Apple ID username and password and then select the Find My feature. The AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation and AirPods Pro 2 all come with a charging case that can plug into an external power source using a standard USB Type-C cable (which is included). However, you also get wireless charging capabilities with the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation and AirPods Pro 2 cases. All current AirPods earbuds now support USB Type-C, as opposed to having a lightning port. Meanwhile, the AirPods Max headphones are now equipped with a USB Type-C port, too. The version with a Lightning port for charging the headphones is no longer available.

Are Apple AirPods also hearing aids? What you need to know about Apple's new groundbreaking health features

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. Apple announced a handful of new products at its "It's Glowtime" fall product reveal this week, including the iPhone 16 smartphone and Apple Watch 10. But one of the biggest pieces of news to come from Apple's event wasn't about a new product, it was about the new hearing aid functionality coming to the company's Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds this fall. The free upgrade will happen via software update. That means existing Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbud owners will be able to take advantage of the new hearing aid and hearing protection features without needing to buy new headphones. (The hearing aid feature does, however, require you to pair the AirPods Pro 2 to an Apple iPhone.) Want to know how Apple AirPods Pro 2 might be able to help you or a family member with mild to moderate hearing loss? Read on -- our CBS Essentials tech experts explain the need-to-know details. Apple is currently working with the FDA to release an update to the AirPods Pro 2 that'll allow the earbuds to work as over-the-counter hearing aids and hearing protectors. Experts are already calling the new hearing aid feature a game changer. While you could easily spend $500 to $1,000 or more for over-the-counter hearing aids from other brands, Apple AirPods Pro 2 retail for just $249 (and can frequently be found on sale for under $200). To take advantage of the soon-to-be-released hearing aid functionality, you'll need to pair your Apple AirPods Pro 2 with an Apple iPhone. From your iPhone, you can then participate in a clinical-grade home hearing test that will determine your level of hearing loss, if any. Based on your test results, the AirPods Pro 2 will automatically be configured to your level of hearing loss, and can serve as hearing aids when worn in everyday situations. Note: The hearing test offered by your iPhone is not a replacement for one performed by an audiologist or ear, nose and throat specialist. You should consult your own doctor first if you believe you have hearing loss. When you use the earbuds to listen to music or participate in hands-free phone calls, the AirPods Pro 2 will automatically adapt to your hearing level. The active noise-canceling earbuds reduce ambient sounds so you can experience crystal-clear and easy-to-understand audio in almost any situation. The earbuds can also act as hearing protectors, reducing extremely loud noises that can cause hearing damage. You can manually fine-tune amplification and tone anytime when using the AirPods Pro 2 as an over-the-counter hearing aid. You can also let the iPhone and AirPods to make adjustments automatically, without you having to tinker with any iPhone or AirPod controls. First, you will need to download and install the latest version of iOS 18 on your iPhone which will have the at-home hearing test functionality. It will also be necessary to update the firmware on your AirPods Pro 2 wireless earbuds. Both updates will be free. Once installed, you can activate the Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection features that will be integrated into the AirPods. Setting up the AirPods Pro 2 to work as hearing aids will require you to complete the hearing test on your iPhone. This can be completed in just a few minutes. After completing the test, your iPhone will display your personalized hearing profile and walk you through the process of setting up the AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids. The settings within the AirPods will be adjusted automatically to match your personal needs. All of your hearing test data is stored locally and privately, within the iPhone's Health app. You can take the hearing test as often as you'd like. You can also share the results with your audiologist or doctor. The suggested retail price of Apple AirPods Pro 2 is $249, and that's what you'll pay for them at the Apple Store. However, popular retailers, like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart and Target frequently put them on sale for $200 or less. This makes them an excellent budget hearing aid option. Hearing aid functionality will be added as a free software upgrade to the Apple AirPods Pro 2. The new iPhone 16 smartphones and Apple Watch Series 10 smartwatches are chock full of new and enhanced health, fitness and safety features. At the same time Apple is updating the AirPods Pro 2 so they can be used as over-the-counter hearing aids. A new feature, called Hearing Protection, will also be unlocked. Anytime you're wearing the earbuds once the firmware update has been installed, they will monitor the ambient sounds around you at a rate of more than 48,000 times per second. When the AirPods pick up loud and potentially unsafe sounds -- if you're at a loud concert, sitting next to a screaming baby, mowing your lawn, or walking past a construction site, for example -- the AirPods Pro 2 will use their built in technologies to automatically reduce the sounds to a safe volume. The sounds you want to hear will continue to be natural, clear and vibrant. The AirPods Pro 2 offer pro-level noise cancellation; adaptive audio that customizes the sounds you hear based on your environment; adaptive EQ; a conversation boost mode that helps you better focus on and hear voices when people are speaking; and the ability to adjust sound volume. Plus, at your discretion, you can play calming sounds, like ocean waves or rainfall, to help mask unwanted environmental noise. If you access the Accessibility menu found in Settings on your iPhone, you'll discover more ways to custom-configure your phone and earbuds to cater to your unique needs. Release date: 2022 | Battery life: Up to 6 hours | Battery life with case: Up to 30 hours | Wireless charging: Yes | Driver size: 11mm | Quick charge: 5 mins in case offers up to 1 hour additional listening/talk time | Charging port on case: USB Type-C | Water & sweat resistant: IP54 | Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking: Yes | Active noise cancellation: Yes | Adaptive audio: Yes | Conversation awareness: Yes | Earbud dimensions: 1.22 x 0.86 x 0.94 inches | Earbud weight: 0.19 ounces | Case dimensions: 1.78 x 2.39 x 0.85 inches | Case weight: 1.79 ounces | Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 | Audio chip: Apple H2 | Hearing aid and hearing protection functionality: Yes With these earbuds, you get features like adaptive audio, pro-level active noise cancellation, a transparency mode, a conversation awareness feature and onboard touch controls. Other notable features include voice isolation, personalized volume, adaptive EQ and loud sound reduction. These AirPods are IP54 rated for dust, sweat and water resistance, so you can definitely wear them at the gym or while working out. The pro-level active noise cancellation feature does a really good job drowning out (and often eliminating) ambient noise, even when you're not listening to audio. When you are listening to music or audio that supports it, the ANC works in conjunction with the spatial audio (with dynamic head tracking) feature to deliver lossless audio with ultra-low latency. As a result, the high fidelity audio these AirPods produces is far more immersive, robust, and lifelike than what's offered by most other earbuds. And thanks to the Adaptive Audio feature, Conversation mode and Transparency mode, you can retain some situational awareness or converse with people in the real world when needed. The audio you're listening to and ANC will adapt automatically, allowing you to have a conversation with someone nearby, while ANC still works in the background to reduce unwanted loud noises. Meanwhile, these earbuds learn and adapt to your personal preferences when you're using them in various environments. As a result, you'll enjoy your customized audio options without having to tinker with the controls. Another feature we really like that's built into the AirPods Pro 2 earbuds are the touch controls you can utilize by tapping or sliding your finger along the step of an earbud. Of course, you also get the seamless switching between Apple devices and access to Siri (and Apple's latest AI functionality offered by Siri). Plus, you get the option to have Siri read incoming text messages or emails, or alert you of urgent app-specific notifications while you're wearing these AirPods. Pro Tip: For help choosing the best Apple AirPods model to meet your needs and budget, check out our newly-updated 2024 Apple AirPods buyer's guide. This hearing aid and hearing protection update will be for all AirPods Pro 2 earbuds only. Hearing aid and hearing protection functionality will not be offered for the AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, or the AirPods Max headphones.