apple has made Active Noise Cancellation a standard feature across its new entry-level AirPods 5 lineup, giving buyers access to the technology without having to move to a more expensive model. The company unveiled the new earbuds at its September 2026 event, with U.S. pricing starting at $129.
The AirPods 5 are available for preorder, with retail availability scheduled to begin September 18. A higher-priced version with a Wireless Charging Case costs $149 in the United States. In India, the models are priced at ₹14,900 and ₹17,900 respectively.
Active Noise Cancellation Comes to the Base Model
The biggest change is the addition of ANC to the standard AirPods 5. Apple says the new earbuds can reduce up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with ANC. The improvement comes from a redesigned multiport acoustic architecture and updated computational audio processing.
Because the AirPods 5 use an open-ear design, they do not create the same physical seal as Apple’s in-ear AirPods Pro models. Apple is therefore continuing to position the Pro range as its premium option for users seeking stronger isolation.
New Audio and Listening Features
AirPods 5 also receive improvements to Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio and Personalized Spatial Audio. Transparency mode is designed to make nearby voices and environmental sounds sound more natural, while Adaptive Audio automatically balances noise cancellation and outside sound based on the surroundings.
The earbuds also feature next-generation Adaptive EQ and a redesigned acoustic system aimed at improving sound quality. Apple says the new model provides a more immersive listening experience while maintaining its open-ear design.
Wireless Charging Model Adds More Features
The $149 AirPods 5 version includes a Wireless Charging Case and longer battery life. It supports USB-C, Qi-compatible chargers and Apple Watch chargers. The case also includes a speaker for Apple’s Find My network.
The upgraded model provides up to five hours of listening with ANC enabled on a single charge and up to 22 hours with the charging case. It also introduces volume controls directly on the earbud stem through a swipe gesture.
Siri AI and Live Translation
Apple is also expanding software capabilities through Siri AI and Live Translation. Users can interact with Siri hands-free, including through head gestures, while Live Translation can help users hear translated conversations when paired with compatible Apple devices and supported languages.
The new features are tied to Apple’s broader Apple Intelligence system and require compatible hardware and software. Availability can vary by language and region.
AirPods 5 Target the Growing ANC Market
By putting ANC in its entry-level AirPods, Apple is changing the positioning of its lower-priced wireless earbuds. Consumers no longer need to select a premium configuration simply to get noise cancellation.
The move also gives Apple a clearer product structure, with the AirPods 5 focused on open-ear comfort and affordability while the AirPods Pro line continues to offer an in-ear design and stronger physical isolation.
With a $129 starting price in the U.S. and new audio, AI and translation features, the AirPods 5 represent Apple’s latest effort to make advanced wireless-earbud technology available to a wider group of consumers.
