Apple just launched the next evolution of its base model wireless headphones—the AirPods 4—plus an all-new AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, AirPods Pro 2 with Active Noise Cancellation and hearing-health features, and AirPods Max—these portable Bluetooth headphones now come in a range of updated colors.
The noise cancellation feature is a welcome addition to the AirPods 4 in 2024.It adds some noise cancelling tech from the first-gen AirPods Pro to a less expensive model of wireless earbuds. Active Noise Cancellation includes Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode (for AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation and AirPods Pro 2).
Perhaps the most dramatic new technology to the AirPods lineup this year are the hearing features in the AirPods Pro 2, which you can use to test,1 protect,2 and boost your hearing—with the capabilities of a clinical-grade hearing aid! The new features for hearing health will come this fall.
1The Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features are expected fall 2024. They will be supported on AirPods Pro 2 with the latest firmware paired with a compatible iPhone or iPad with iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 and later. The Hearing Aid feature is also supported on Mac running macOS Sequoia and later. It is pending FDA authorization.
2The Hearing Protection feature works with AirPods Pro 2 with the latest firmware when paired with a compatible iPhone, iPad, or Mac with iOS 18, iPadOS 18, or macOS Sequoia and later. Feature is only available in the U.S. and Canada. See https://support.apple.com/120850 for total attenuation and more information.
Earbuds are a type of headphone that fits inside of your ear.
Pixel Buds, made by Google, are not entirely waterproof, but they do have a water resistance rating. The Pixel Buds 2, for example, have an IPX4 rating, which means they are resistant to splashes of water from any direction. This makes them suitable for use during light rain or while sweating during a workout. However, they are not designed to be submerged in water or exposed to high-pressure water jets. It's essential to avoid using them in heavy rain, swimming, or other situations where they might be submerged in water to prevent damage.
Whether you’re looking for the right headphones or earbuds to enhance the quality of your music or a pair that provides clear, crisp sound as you take important calls, there are a multitude of options that meet your needs and your budget.
The AirPods 4 are revamped this year, and a higher-tier model—the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation—launched alongside the base model. Exercise enthusiasts will appreciate the durability of the AirPods Pro 2, plus the model’s new hearing-health features. And if you want to refresh the look of your AirPods Max in 2024, you can explore this model’s newest color options.
Headphones and earbuds are often used interchangeably. However, they are two different products. Headphones are meant to go over your head with earcups on each side resting on the outside of your ear, whereas earbuds go directly in your ear canal. The style you choose really boils downs to which style you find the most comfortable.
If you're an audiophile, you’ll want to pick headphones that enhance the quality of the sound of your music. For exercising or playing a sport, you'll want to look into wireless earbuds. Wireless sports earbuds come with an earpiece that goes around your ear to safely secure the headphones while you're active.
There are pros and cons to using wireless and wired headphones. Wired headphones don’t have to be charged. They are plugged directly into your phone ensuring that you have a clear and secure sound connection. Overtime, the wire that connects to your phone can become frayed and damaged, and you’ll need to buy a replacement.
Wireless headphones eliminate the need for a cord to connect your phone. They are connected to your phone using technology such as Bluetooth and NFC. That’s one less wire you’ll have to deal with. However, wireless sound devices require charging before you use them. Because they operate on a battery, you have to make sure your headphones or earbuds are fully-charged or you run the risk of them dying while you’re on a call.
Both wired and wireless headphones have controls that allow you to adjust your volume as well as answer and decline calls.
Don’t forget to pair your new phone with matching earbuds like Apple AirPods, Samsung Galaxy Buds and Google Pixel Buds.