Apple Launches Noise Cancelling AirPods Pro

Apple has announced the AirPods Pro to the AirPods family that features Active Noise Cancellation, immersive sound with an all-new lightweight, in-ear design.

The Active Noise Cancellation on AirPods Pro uses two microphones combined with software to adapt to each individual ear and headphone fit.

The first microphone is outward-facing and detects external sound to analyse environmental noise. This then creates an equivalent anti-noise that cancels out background noise before it reaches the listener’s ear. A second inward-facing microphone listens toward the ear, and AirPods Pro cancel remaining noise detected by the microphone. Noise cancellation continuously adapts the sound signal 200 times per second.

There is also the Transparency Mode which provides users with the option to simultaneously listen to music while still hearing the environment around them, whether that’s to hear traffic while out for a run or an important train announcement during the morning commute.

Switching between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes can be done directly on AirPods Pro using a new, force sensor on the stem. The force sensor also makes it easy to play, pause or skip tracks, and answer or hang up phone calls. Users can also press on the volume slider in Control Centre on iPhone and iPad to control settings, or on Apple Watch by tapping on the AirPlay icon while music is playing.

Performance and Battery Life

AirPods Pro feature the same battery life as AirPods with up to five hours of listening time. In Active Noise Cancellation mode, AirPods Pro 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.

Through additional charges from the Wireless Charging Case, AirPods Pro deliver over 24 hours of listening time or over 18 hours of talk time.2 Charging is as simple as placing the AirPods case on a Qi-certified charging mat or using the Lightning port while on the go.

Additional Features include Voice-activated Siri using the H1 chip to enable hands-free “Hey Siri” to play a song, increase the volume, make a call or get directions. Audio Sharing makes it easy to listen to the same song or watch the same movie with a friend by simply bringing a second pair of AirPods close to iPhone or iPad. Announce Messages automatically and conveniently speaks incoming messages as soon as they arrive, and when on a phone call or sharing media via Audio Sharing, Siri knows not to interrupt.

Pricing and Availability

AirPods Pro will be available for £249 (R 4,680) and are available to order from apple.com/uk and in the Apple Store app in the US and more than 25 other countries and regions.

AirPods Pro will start shipping on Wednesday, October 30 and be available in stores beginning later this week (varies by country and region).