Apple introduces 'AirPods Pro' with new design and noise cancellation

Oct 28 2019, 5:55 pm

Apple has just announced the release of its third-generation AirPods.

Dubbed the Apple ‘AirPods Pro,’ the new style is an exciting addition to the coveted AirPods lineup and features significant changes to the ubiquitous white buds.

This includes Active Noise Cancellation, improved immersive sound, and an all-new, lightweight, in-ear design.

“AirPods are the best-selling headphones in the world. The one-tap setup experience, incredible sound and iconic design have made them a beloved Apple product, and with AirPods Pro, we’re taking the magic even further,” said Phil Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing in a statement.

“The new in-ear AirPods Pro sound amazing with Adaptive EQ, fit comfortably with flexible ear tips and have innovative Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode. We think customers are going to love this new addition to the AirPods family.”

Image courtesy of Apple

The Design

The new generation AirPods are lighter than previous models and feature flexible ear tips that can be swapped out for a more comfortable and snugger fit, resulting in a noise-isolating boost to the sound quality. Apple says there are three differently-sized pairs of ear tips supplied that users can choose from.

Not to mention, the new style is also sweat and water-resistant, making it perfect for those with an active lifestyle.

Image courtesy of Apple

Noise Cancellation

Perhaps the most notable update is the new AirPods use noise-cancelling technology. The new design uses two microphones in each earbud to listen to background noise and actively cancel the sound around you.

According to Apple, one of the microphones is outward-facing and detects external sound to analyze environmental noise. The second microphone is inward-facing and listens to the sounds inside your ears. This allows the earbuds to cancel the remaining noise detected by the microphone.

Additionally, you can switch between active noise cancellation and what Apple refers to as Transparency mode, which allows users to simultaneously listen to music while still hearing the environment around them.

This means you can still listen to your favourite song or podcast while still listening for traffic while you walk to work, for example.

You can switch between the two modes simply from your device or by squeezing the bottom of the earbuds between your fingertips through a new, innovative force sensor located on the stem.

Image courtesy of Apple

Improved, immersive sound

Apple says the new design is also integrated with Adaptive EQ, which automatically tunes the low- and mid-frequencies of the music to the shape of an individual’s ear. The tech giant says this results in a richer and more immersive listening experience.

Image courtesy of Apple

Performance and Battery Life

The new AirPods Pro work with an Apple-designed chip called the H1, which powers everything from real-time noise cancellation to the ability to respond to “Hey Siri” requests.

Apple says that you can expect the same battery life that you’d get with regular AirPods — with up to five hours of listening time.

In Active Noise Cancellation mode, AirPods Pro will deliver up to four and a half hours of listening time and up to three and a half hours of talk time on a single charge.

Additionally, AirPods Pro deliver up to 24 hours of listening time with the charging case.

Speaking of the charging case, that has also undergone a minor makeover and is now more rectangular-shaped and features a Lightning port and wireless charging.

AirPods Pro are available to order online and the Apple Store app for $329 CAD starting Monday, October 28 and will hit store shelves beginning Wednesday, October 30.

Ainsley SmithAinsley Smith

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