Apple continues to innovate its popular AirPods lineup, with exciting updates announced at its latest event. This year, the AirPods Max receives a stylish refresh with new color options, while the AirPods Pro 2 gets groundbreaking hearing-related features. The upgrades focus on both style and health, making Apple’s audio products even more versatile.
AirPods Max: New Colors and USB-C
One of the key highlights of Apple’s event was the introduction of five new colors for the AirPods Max. These premium over-the-ear headphones are now available in midnight, starlight, blue, orange, and purple, allowing users to better match their headphones with other Apple products like Mac and iPad.
In addition to the new colors, Apple has finally added a USB-C port to the AirPods Max, bringing them in line with the rest of its product ecosystem. The switch to USB-C makes it easier to charge the AirPods Max alongside other Apple devices. However, beyond these changes, the AirPods Max remains largely the same, with no further hardware updates. They are still priced at $549, and pre-orders are available now, with the release set for September 20.
AirPods Pro 2: Hearing Health Features
While the AirPods Max received only cosmetic updates, the AirPods Pro 2 got a major boost with new hearing health features. Apple’s goal with these updates is to make hearing care more accessible and integrated into everyday life. The AirPods Pro 2 now comes with several new tools aimed at protecting, testing, and improving hearing.
Hearing Protection
One of the standout features added to the AirPods Pro 2 is Hearing Protection, designed to shield users from loud sounds. Thanks to machine learning, the AirPods Pro 2 will automatically adjust audio levels to protect hearing when exposed to high-noise environments like subways, concerts, or sporting events.
Using its H2 chip, the AirPods Pro 2 continuously monitors external noise, reducing loud, sudden sounds without distorting the music or voices users are listening to. This protection feature is active by default across all modes, ensuring users are always safe in noisy environments.
Personalized Hearing Test
Apple is also introducing a new Hearing Test feature for the AirPods Pro 2. This test uses pure-tone audiometry, a standard clinical method, to assess a user’s hearing ability. The test can be taken easily at home, providing results in just minutes. Once complete, users can view a summary of their hearing profile, which is stored securely in the Health app.
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The hearing test is a valuable tool not only for those who suspect hearing loss but for anyone wanting to stay aware of their hearing health. Users can share their test results with doctors, making it easier to have informed discussions about hearing issues.
Built-In Hearing Aid
One of the most groundbreaking updates is the introduction of a built-in Hearing Aid feature for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. Using the personalized hearing profile from the test, the AirPods Pro 2 can dynamically adjust the sound to boost the voices and sounds around users in real time.
This over-the-counter hearing aid feature is a first in the industry and makes it easier for users to address their hearing needs without the expense or complexity of traditional hearing aids. It also applies the personalized settings to all media, including music, phone calls, and movies, ensuring a consistent audio experience.
Media Assist
Another useful feature coming to the AirPods Pro 2 is Media Assist. This tool helps to boost specific parts of speech during phone calls or enhance certain sounds within a soundtrack. This feature benefits not only those with hearing loss but anyone who wants clearer audio when listening to media.
Environmentally Friendly Design
Apple’s commitment to the environment is also evident in its latest AirPods 4 models. The new design uses 100% recycled materials in the magnets, gold plating, tin solder, and aluminum components. Additionally, Apple has reduced the packaging volume by over 30%, helping to lower shipping emissions.
Apple’s goal is to be carbon neutral by 2030, and these updates bring the company closer to that target. By using sustainable materials and minimizing plastic in packaging, Apple ensures that its products are as eco-friendly as possible.
Pricing and Availability
The new hearing health features for the AirPods Pro 2 will be available this fall as a free software update in over 100 countries. The AirPods Pro 2 are priced at $249 and are available now through Apple’s online store and app.
Meanwhile, the AirPods Max with USB-C and new color options are priced at $549. Pre-orders have begun, and the release date is set for September 20.
Conclusion
Apple’s latest updates to its AirPods lineup bring both style and substance. With new color options and USB-C for the AirPods Max, and powerful hearing health features for the AirPods Pro 2, Apple continues to push the boundaries of what personal audio devices can do. Whether you’re looking for better sound, hearing assistance, or environmentally friendly design, Apple’s new AirPods offer something for everyone.
