Apple introduced the AirPods 5 at its Surprise and Shine event on September 9, 2026, unveiling a range of improvements that elevate the user experience. Notably, these earbuds feature an enhanced active noise cancellation system that Apple claims reduces background noise by 50% more than the previous generation. This advancement positions the AirPods 5 as leaders in active noise cancellation technology within the wireless earbud market. CEO John Ternus highlighted that this upgrade expands access to advanced features across the entire AirPods range.

In addition to noise cancellation, Apple added convenient volume controls directly on the AirPods 5 stems, a feature previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro model. Users can now adjust volume by swiping up or down on the earbud stems, reducing the need to access their iPhone. The earbuds also include the H2 chip, enabling hands-free Siri activation and expanded Apple Intelligence features. The updated Siri, coming with iOS 27, is designed to better understand user context by drawing from messages, emails, photos, and other apps to deliver more personalized responses and actions.

The AirPods 5 also improve transparency mode, making it easier for users to hear sounds and voices around them naturally. New adaptive audio features balance noise cancellation and transparency based on the environment, while conversation awareness can automatically lower media volume when the wearer begins speaking. Battery life has been extended, offering up to five hours of listening on a single charge with noise cancellation active, while the charging case provides a total of 22 hours.

Apple’s AirPods 5 are priced starting at $129, with a wireless charging case option available at $149. Preorders opened on September 9, with product availability scheduled for September 18. Alongside the AirPods 5 announcement, Apple showcased other hardware updates including the foldable iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro models, and new Apple Watch releases, marking a significant push in their hardware lineup this year.