Exploring the Tech Innovations in Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise-Cancelling

Apple AirPods 4: A New Era of Active Noise-Cancelling

If you're an Apple fan who's never quite gotten along with wireless earbuds that come with silicone tips, you're not alone. But, those who have had to stick with the regular AirPods have also had to make do without one of the best features of the upgraded Pro model: active noise cancellation (ANC). With the recent launch of the Apple AirPods 4, ANC is finally available in a semi-open design. In this review, I’ll share my experience with the AirPods 4, including their fit, sound quality, and noise cancellation performance.

Design and Comfort of Apple AirPods 4

At first glance, the design of the Apple AirPods 4 remains sleek and compact. Apple has subtly refined their shape for increased comfort during extended use. However, it’s essential to note that the semi-open fit isn’t as secure as the in-ear models, especially during physical activities.

Enhanced Sound Quality

The sound quality has noticeably improved with the introduction of 11mm drivers and an “Adaptive EQ”. This feature allows the AirPods 4 to adapt to users' ear shapes while delivering balanced sound across various genres. Additionally, personalized spatial audio takes the listening experience to the next level.

Active Noise-Cancelling Performance

The major highlight of the AirPods 4 is obviously the ANC feature. They effectively reduce ambient noises in environments like planes and cafes. However, they struggle with louder environments, making the AirPods Pro 2 a better choice for serious noise cancellation.

Battery Life Considerations

One area where the AirPods 4 fall short is battery life, offering only around four hours of listening time with ANC activated. This model is competitive but does not match some rivals known for longer usage times.

Integration within the Apple Ecosystem

Like previous models, these earbuds integrate seamlessly with Apple products, enhancing usability through features like instant pairing and Adaptive Audio. However, those seeking superior performance may still find the AirPods Pro 2 a better investment.

Final Thoughts on AirPods 4

The Apple AirPods 4 with ANC appear to be a worthy upgrade for those who favor the semi-open fit while desiring noise cancellation. The sound quality and comfort are impressive, but those needing deeper bass or extended battery life might want to explore alternatives in the market.