Apple introduced two new versions of the AirPods 4, featuring an updated design and fresh features. With this announcement, some older AirPods models are being discontinued. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new and what’s leaving Apple’s AirPods lineup.
New AirPods lineup: AirPods 4 come in two versions
You can pre-order both AirPods 4 models starting today, with shipping set for September 20. The standard AirPods 4 are priced at $129, while the version with Active Noise Cancellation is available for $179.
AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 now discontinued
When Apple launched AirPods 3 in 2021, they kept selling AirPods 2 at a lower price. But with the introduction of two new 4th Gen AirPods models, Apple is discontinuing both AirPods 2 and 3.
The base AirPods 4, priced at $129, takes the place of AirPods 2, while the mid-range version with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) replaces AirPods 3 at $179. If you’re still looking for AirPods 2 or 3, you can find them at discounted prices on Amazon.
AirPods Max
Surprise! Apple hasn’t forgotten about the AirPods Max. For the first time since their 2020 debut, Apple’s premium headphones are getting an update—but it’s a modest one.
The new AirPods Max now feature a USB-C port instead of Lightning, allowing for lossless audio via cable. Other than that, the design and hardware remain unchanged. On the bright side, they come in five new colors: blue, purple, midnight, starlight, and orange.
They’re available for pre-order at the same $549 price. If you’re fine with the original design, you can snag the older AirPods Max for $459 on Amazon.
AirPods Pro
As anticipated, Apple didn’t unveil a new AirPods Pro at today’s event. Rumor has it that a new version with a heart-rate sensor is in the works for next year.
For now, AirPods Pro 2 remains available at $249, though you can find it for as low as $199 on Amazon.
Wrap up: new AirPods lineup
So this is the new AirPods lineup:
- AirPods 4: $129
- AirPods 4 with ANC: $179
- AirPods Pro 2: $249
- AirPods Max with USB-C: $549
