AirPods 4 (2024)
AirPods 4 offered two open-fit H2 variants: a base model and one with active noise cancellation, also differing in case features.
Specs
| Highlight | Open fit; force sensor |
| Technology and variants | H2; non-ANC or ANC variants |
| Case charging and speaker | USB-C; Qi/Watch and speaker only on ANC case |
| Battery life by mode | Up to 5/30 h without noise control; 4/20 h with ANC |
| Release | 2024-09-20 |
| Price | 129 / 179 USD |
| Resistance | IP54 |
| Battery life | up to 5 h |
Launch and context
Apple announced both on September 9, 2024, opening preorders that day with availability from September 20 in initial markets. US pricing was $129 without cancellation or $179 with ANC. These were not one package with a software-unlockable function: the higher variant had extra earbud and case capabilities. Both used USB-C charging ports. [a4-launch, a4-base, a4-anc]
How Apple presented it
Both shared H2, a shape without silicone tips, Adaptive EQ, Personalized Spatial Audio and force controls. The ANC version added cancellation, Transparency, Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness. Its case included a Find My speaker and Qi or Apple Watch charging alongside USB-C; the base case charged only by USB-C and lacked that speaker. The specifications list a USB-C cable sold separately. Earbuds and case were laboratory-rated IP54, not a guarantee of submersion or permanent protection. [a4-launch, a4-base, a4-anc]
Documented issues
The Verge found ANC surprisingly useful against low-frequency noise but less comprehensive than sealed AirPods Pro and limited in places such as a crowded bar. Fit still depended on anatomy and there was no earbud volume-swipe control. Apple advertised up to 5 hours listening and 30 with the case without noise control; with active cancellation on the ANC variant, up to 4 and 20 respectively. These figures should not be merged into one endurance claim. They describe design and testing conditions, not a failure rate. [a4-review, a4-base, a4-anc]
Sources
- a4-anc · , AirPods4 ANC technical specs · https://support.apple.com/en-us/121204
- a4-base · , AirPods4 technical specs · https://support.apple.com/en-us/121203
- a4-launch · , Apple introduces AirPods4, September9 2024 · https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2/
- a4-review · , AirPods4 review, September2024 · https://www.theverge.com/24245570/apple-airpods-4-review
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Updated: October 26, 2026 · Compare this product