Apple's latest AirPods 4 are making waves with two significant updates: the introduction of active noise cancellation (ANC) to the base model and a shift to capacitive controls. These changes are set to redefine the AirPods lineup and user experience.
Noise Cancellation Comes to Base AirPods
In a surprising move, Apple has brought ANC to its non-Pro AirPods for the first time. This feature, previously reserved for the more expensive AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, is now accessible to a broader audience. However, there's a catch - the ANC performance on the AirPods 4 isn't quite on par with its premium siblings.
According to Apple's website, the AirPods Pro 2 offers up to 2x more Active Noise Cancellation compared to the AirPods 4. This suggests that while the AirPods 4's noise cancellation may be comparable to the first-generation AirPods Pro, it won't match the latest Pro model's capabilities.
Despite this, early hands-on experiences with the AirPods 4 have reportedly left users impressed with the ANC quality. This is particularly noteworthy given the open-ear design of the AirPods 4, which typically struggles with noise isolation compared to in-ear models with silicone tips.
Farewell Physical Button, Hello Capacitive Control
In another significant design change, Apple has replaced the physical pairing button on the AirPods case with a hidden capacitive button. Located on the front of the case, just below the status light, this new control method requires users to open the case and double-tap to initiate pairing or reset the AirPods to factory settings.
This shift aligns with Apple's minimalist design philosophy and could potentially improve the case's durability by eliminating moving parts. However, it may also introduce a learning curve for users accustomed to the tactile feedback of physical buttons.
Implications for the AirPods Lineup
These updates to the AirPods 4 raise questions about product differentiation within Apple's audio lineup. With ANC now available in the base model, the key advantages of the AirPods Pro 2 become its superior noise cancellation performance and the in-ear design with silicone tips for better passive noise isolation.
As we await more detailed reviews and user feedback, it's clear that Apple is pushing the boundaries of what users can expect from its entry-level wireless earbuds. The AirPods 4 appears to be bridging the gap between the standard and Pro models, potentially offering a compelling middle-ground option for consumers.
Stay tuned for more in-depth analysis as we get our hands on the new AirPods 4 and put its noise cancellation and capacitive controls to the test.
