Apple introduces AirPods 5 with open-ear ANC starting at $129

Apple introduced AirPods 5, open-ear earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), improved audio, and support for Siri AI and Live Translation.

ANC removes up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with ANC, Apple says. The earbuds also include Adaptive Audio, a more natural Transparency mode, and Conversation Awareness, which lowers media volume when the user starts speaking.

Prices and store availability

AirPods 5 cost $129 in the U.S., while the version with a Wireless Charging Case costs $149. Pre-orders are available in the U.S. and more than 65 other countries and regions; stores will begin carrying the earbuds Friday, September 18.

The Wireless Charging Case model provides up to five hours of playback with ANC enabled and up to 22 hours with the case. The case supports Apple Watch chargers, Qi-compatible chargers, and USB-C.

Siri AI and Live Translation

AirPods 5 support hands-free Siri AI access on compatible Apple devices. Users can also respond to Siri by nodding or shaking their head.

Live Translation works through the Translate app after users download the required languages, on compatible devices with Apple Intelligence enabled. Apple says some features may not be available in all regions or languages.

Materials and manufacturing

Apple says AirPods 5 contain 40 percent recycled material overall. The Wireless Charging Case includes 70 percent recycled plastic, while the battery uses 100 percent recycled cobalt.