Table of Contents
The question on everyone’s mind during a recent flight was, “When will we see smell cancellation?” as users tested the new AirPods 4. While in-flight discomfort might have come from an unfortunate seat mate, the auditory experience was another story entirely.
The AirPods 4 delivered a remarkable audio journey, especially during an extensive flight, showcasing its capabilities in active noise cancellation (ANC) despite external distractions.
Finally introducing ANC capabilities, Apple unveiled the AirPods 4 on September 9, presenting two versions: one with ANC and one without.
Travelers had the unique opportunity to test the new AirPods 4 with ANC on long-haul flights. The experiences of battling in-flight noise, noisy announcements, and engine sounds were put to the test.
AirPods 4 Price and Specs
Consumers have the option between two variants of the AirPods 4. The version without ANC retails for $129, while the model with ANC is priced at $179.
Both models boast advanced features thanks to the H2 chip, including:
- Personalized Spatial Audio
- Siri Interactions
- Voice Isolation
- Up to 5 hours of listening time
The ANC-equipped AirPods 4 stand out with advanced audio features like Transparency Mode, Conversation Awareness, and Adaptive Audio. Their charging case also supports wireless charging and Precision Finding to assist in locating the earbuds.
Pre-orders are currently open, with shipping commencing on September 20.
AirPods 4 Design
Apple has redesigned the AirPods 4 for a better fit, appealing to a broader audience. The new earbuds provide an improved fit based on extensive analysis of user ear shapes.
In testing, the AirPods 4 proved to sit comfortably without the fear of falling out during rigorous activities. However, long usage may lead to slight discomfort, especially for users with unique ear shapes.
Signature Look
The AirPods 4 maintain a familiar design with elongated stems, appearing slightly taller and wider than prior models. They showcase the classic all-white style, though users anticipate varied color options in future releases.
Force Sensor
The updated earbuds feature a force sensor on the stem for easy switching between modes during use.
AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancellation
Utilizing the ANC feature, the AirPods 4 significantly minimized ambient noise during flights. This reduction made way for an immersive audio experience, allowing users to enjoy their music like never before.
While the AirPods 4 decreased the noise level of the airplane engines, complete silence is unattainable. The ANC effectively mitigated high-frequency sounds, providing a more enjoyable listening atmosphere.
ANC Challenges in Open-Ear Designs
In a market where ANC is often associated with in-ear or over-ear designs, the achievement of such technology in the AirPods 4 is noteworthy, utilizing advanced microphones and audio processing.
AirPods 4 Sound Quality
The AirPods 4 deliver impressive sound quality across various devices. Their Personalized Spatial Audio feature significantly enhances the listening experience, creating immersive audio that envelops the user.
Listeners noted the depth and clarity of sound in popular songs, exemplifying the high-quality audio engineering of the AirPods 4.
AirPods 4 Battery Life
Apple claims the AirPods 4 offer up to five hours of battery life per charge, aligning closely with real-world testing that showcased longevity and performance.
AirPods 4 Call Quality
Testing revealed that the voice quality on calls was exemplary, with users noting clarity and reduced background noise, thanks to the Voice Isolation feature.
AirPods 4 Charging Case
The newly designed charging case for the AirPods 4 is both compact and convenient, enhancing the portability factor for users on the go. The case features Qi charging and improved durability with an IP54 rating.
AirPods 4 Siri Interactions
New Siri Interactions allow for hands-free confirmations, enhancing user experience while enabling seamless control over calls and notifications.
Are AirPods 4 Worth It?
The AirPods 4 distinguish themselves as a top choice in the wireless earbud market, offering superior fit and functionality while setting a new standard for active noise cancellation. They are poised to be recognized as a leading option for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
