Apple Unveils AirPods 5 With Stronger Noise Cancellation and Siri AI

Apple has unveiled AirPods 5, updating its wireless earbuds with stronger active noise cancellation, improved Audio, new stem controls and expanded Siri and Apple Intelligence features.

The biggest change is noise cancellation. Apple says AirPods 5 can reduce background noise by 50% more than the previous generation and describes the system as the best active noise cancellation in its open-ear category.

“We’re thrilled that with AirPods 5, active noise cancellation is now standard across our entire AirPods lineup,” CEO John Ternus said during the company’s event.

AirPods 5 add stem volume controls

Apple has added volume controls directly to the stem, a feature previously limited to AirPods Pro. Users can swipe up or down on the earbuds to adjust volume without reaching for an iPhone.

AirPods 5 use Apple’s H2 chip and support hands-free Siri and Apple Intelligence features. Users can ask questions, find information, perform actions and get directions without picking up their phone.

The updated Siri, expected to arrive in beta with iOS 27, is designed to use personal context from messages, emails, photos and other apps to provide more relevant responses and complete tasks.

Adaptive Audio and battery life improve

Transparency mode has also been updated to make surrounding voices and sounds feel more natural. Adaptive Audio can automatically balance noise cancellation and Transparency mode based on the environment, while Conversation Awareness lowers media volume when the user begins speaking.

Apple says AirPods 5 provide up to five hours of listening with active noise cancellation enabled. The charging case extends total listening time to up to 22 hours with noise cancellation turned on.

AirPods 5 start at $129, while a version bundled with a Wireless Charging Case costs $149. Preorders are open now, with availability beginning Sept. 18.