The sound quality is very impressive and full, and Spatial Audio works great.
Obviously, the active noise cancellation is the star of the show.
They were released on September 20th, 2024.
I found that this process took just a few seconds to complete.
Fast-pairing and quick switching between devices have long been staples of AirPods, and they perform well here.
It works for things like calls or fitness tracking suggestions from theApple Watch.
They charge over USB-C or wirelessly, using Qi or Apples MagSafe charging.
With ANC off, I got 7.5 hours.
Having Spatial Audio on as well will reduce this time further, though.
Now, we need to talk about what AirPodsdontdo.
Which is to say: almost all of this, if you dont have an Apple gear.
The issues are all super-subtle the difference between a really good presentation and an excellent one.
Its a more immersive listening experience, and Apples implementation here is excellent.
They still just kind of plop in your ear and rest there.
Theres no lanyard loop, unlike AirPods Pro 2.
Theres no physical button on the rear of the case for easy pairing, though.
However, when you get into comparing them with earbuds that have in-ear tips, things start to wobble.
Should I Buy Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation?
Buy them if… ## Don’t buy them if…
I’ve used them with an array of Apple devices, as they are meant to be used.
I tested Spatial Audio with Apple Music and Dolby Atmos movies from various sources.
