Apple introduces AirPods 5 with best-in-class open-ear Active Noise Cancellation

Apple today announced AirPods 5, delivering the industry’s best Active Noise Cancellation in an open-ear design and even better sound quality. Apple introduces AirPods 5 with best-in-class open-ear Active Noise Cancellation. PRESS RELEASE September 9, 2026 Apple introduces AirPods 5, featuring best-in-class open‑ear Active Noise Cancellation With industry-leading ANC in an open-ear design, improved sound quality, hands-free access to Siri AI, and Live Translation, AirPods 5 deliver the best audio experience Apple has ever offered in this style of AirPods, at an incredible price AirPods 5 deliver the industry’s best Active Noise Cancellation in an open-ear design, an all-new multiport acoustic architecture, and next-generation Adaptive EQ for even more immersive sound.

1 AirPods 5 feature an all-new multiport acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ for even more immersive sound. Their breakthrough open-ear ANC removes up to 50 percent more external noise compared to AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, alongside a more natural Transparency mode. Combined with Siri AI and iPhone, AirPods lets users draw on their personal context and get answers with broad world knowledge, entirely hands-free.

2 Users can also respond to Siri using head gestures, or use Live Translation to help connect across languages. AirPods 5 offer the most affordable way to experience some of the most powerful AirPods features — along with greater durability with improved dust, sweat, and water resistance — at $129. For users who want even more, AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case add longer battery life and on-stem volume control for $149.

Apple Watch Series 12 comes in a refreshed selection of case finishes and materials, including ceramic. Here’s a breakdown of the case types, finishes, and pricing across the new Apple Watch lineup: Apple Watch Series 12 (aluminum): Available in space gray, black, light gold, and dark bronze (starts at $399).

Apple today unveiled AirPods 5, available to order now starting at just $129, the new version of its entry-level AirPods. The biggest takeaway is that — among a sea of Apple price increases — the new AirPods are actually cheaper than ever, despite coming with Active Noise Cancellation as standard, and a few other niceties.

Apple’s latest base AirPods are here, and it’s all good news – you’re getting better sound, more powerful noise cancellation, and the price is lower, spec-for-spec. Before we continue, let’s get one thing out of the way – this is the non-Pro earbud, with the open-ear design.

The Watch Series 12 delivers a host of upgrades and even comes in a ceramic body. Apple Watch Series 12 will listen to your conversations.

Still no cameras, though. Apple AirPods 5 go all-in on ANC.

Apple Watch Series 12 (titanium): Available in radiant gold and natural (starts at $699). Apple Watch Series 12 (ceramic): Available in pearl white and night blue (starts at $899).

Here’s what’s new compared to the outgoing AirPods 4 … more…. Apple unveils foldable iPhone Duo Chance Miller Sep 9 2026.

AirPods 5 comes in two versions – one with the regular USB-C case, and one with a wireless charging case and stem touch controls. Both models have ANC this time, and Apple claims the AirPods 5 have the the best active noise cancellation for an open-ear design on the market.

Big Tech Apple Apple Watch Series 12 will listen to your conversations It also gains an improved blood pressure sensor and more powerful internals. The wearable gets a redesigned sensor platform to better keep track of your vitals.

The ceramic finish returns with the Series 12 this year, pairing with sand and navy blue Sport Bands that feature a ceramic pin-and-tuck closure to match the case. Pre-orders for both Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are open today, with availability beginning Friday, September 18.

Elaborating further, Apple says the… Apple AirPods 5 are better, but surprisingly also cheaper.