AirPods

Key Changes & Upgrades:

1. Better Active Noise Cancellation – Apple claims up to 2x more effective noise cancellation compared to previous models.

2. Heart Rate Sensor – A new built-in sensor for fitness tracking. If you don’t own an Apple Watch, this could be very useful, but you’ll need to carry your iPhone along with your AirPods when going for a run or walk.

3. Size & Fit – Slightly updated design for improved comfort.

4. Battery Life – Up to 8 hours of listening (vs. 6 hours before). With heart-rate sensing enabled, it drops to 6.5 hours. The case now gives 24 hours of total listening, compared to 30 hours with older AirPods Pro—so less case battery this time.

5. Water Resistance – Upgraded to IP57 (from IP54).

6. Charging Case – Now powered by Apple’s U2 chip (previously U1), offering better finding/tracking and improved device interaction (works best with iPhone 15 or later and Apple Watch 9 or later, which also have the U2 chip).

7. In the Box – Includes 5 silicone ear tips (vs. 4 before). However, Apple no longer includes a USB-C cable in the box.

Other Features:

1. Live Translation – Works even with older devices, as long as the feature is available in your region.

2. Hearing Health – Hearing test, hearing aid, and hearing protection features are also supported on older devices.