While Apple's next-generation AirPods has taken center stage during the recent It's Glowtime event, users who are unacquainted with it need to know these new features and capabilities on the audio wearable. Apple outdid itself with the regular wireless Bluetooth earphones with the latest AirPods 4, surprising the world with its two-version release for the year.
Apart from the usual music-listening improvements that are expected from Apple, the AirPods 4 goes above and beyond to bring significant experiences not just for the iPhone.
Apple AirPods 4 Brings New 'Secret' Capacitive Button
Apple
There are two new AirPods 4 on the market, and both of them have a secret. According to a report by Macotakara, Cupertino introduced a new change for the latest AirPods, particularly in its charging case where it now offers a capacitive button.
From the first AirPods until its most recent availability in 2023's USB-C AirPods Pro 2, all of its charging cases offered physical buttons to pair or reset the device. This is parallel to Apple's renowned move of removing the physical home button on iPhones and replacing it with a capacitive touch.
Users may double-tap on the new AirPods case to pair it with Apple devices or long-press or triple-tap to reset the device.
Another iconic feature of the AirPods 4 now makes it a better accessory for the Vision Pro, ushering in support for its Lossless Audio which also brings "ultra-low latency."
The two AirPods 4 may only have subtle differences, but the cheaper one is for those who have tight budgets, and the more expensive one comes with Active Noise Cancelation. AirPods 4 with ANC also offers Qi2 wireless charging support and via Apple Watch's MagSafe.
Both already offer USB-C charging, the H2 chip, a new force sensor, and of course, Siri Interactions.
The Future of the Apple AirPods
The future remains unknown for Apple and its technological developments, but there are already massive rumors and speculations about what it will offer soon, especially with the AirPods lineup. Various rumors have gone true for the AirPods, including the Find My feature, Hearing Aid capabilities, and USB-C, but it has yet to receive the leaked heart rate detection from Cupertino.
Last year, JBL proved that it is possible to make wireless earbuds smarter, but not exactly applying it to the wearable, with 2023's JBL Tour Pro 2 offering a touchscreen display for various audio controls. This is something that Apple also speculated about after finding its patent where it would integrate an "interactive display" on the earbuds' charging case.
It is expected that the AirPods lineup will still expand and offer more technology, as well as improvements that would further cement its legacy in the industry. For now, Apple has treated the world with the two AirPods 4's coming this September 20, giving users a chance to familiarize themselves with its features before its arrival.
