With the AirPods 5, Apple is making active noise cancellation a standard feature on its most affordable earbuds. The company refers to an “open-ear” design, although the construction is actually somewhere in between. It also features redesigned acoustics, live translation, and two models starting at 149 euros.
50 percent quieter without silicone earplugs
Apple confidently describes the noise cancellation in the AirPods 5 as the best in its class. This is made possible by a new multi-port acoustic architecture and advanced algorithms for computer-assisted audio. Compared to the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation, the new earbuds are said to reduce ambient noise by up to 50 percent.
This claim is based on measurements conducted by Apple in July 2026 in accordance with IEC 60268-24. The comparison was made using the best-selling wireless open-ear headphones available at the time of testing.
AirPods 5: A Cross Between Earbuds and Open-Ear Headphones
However, the device category Apple has chosen warrants closer examination. The AirPods 5 are not open-ear headphones in the traditional sense, like the Shokz OpenFit reviewed here or the JBL Soundgear Sense reviewed here. With those models, the drivers sit in front of the ear, leaving the ear canal completely open.
Although the AirPods 5 aren’t inserted deep into the ear canal and don’t use silicone tips to create a seal, their drivers direct sound directly into the entrance of the ear canal. This design places them somewhere between traditional earbuds and true open-ear headphones. It is precisely this intermediate position that enables effective noise cancellation—a feature that, by design, is virtually impossible to achieve with fully open models like Shokz or Teufel. A test will have to show just how significant this improvement actually is under everyday conditions.
According to Apple, the company has also improved Transparency Mode. Voices and ambient sounds are said to sound more natural in this mode. Adaptive Audio automatically combines Transparency Mode and noise cancellation based on the current environment. When the user begins to speak, conversation detection automatically lowers the playback volume.
New Acoustics for the AirPods 5
The multiport architecture isn’t just for noise cancellation. Combined with a next-generation adaptive equalizer, it’s designed to deliver a richer, more detailed sound. At the same time, Apple promises more consistent sound quality across different ear shapes—an important consideration, especially for earbuds that don’t create a complete seal.
Personalized 3D Audio is also back. The personalized listening profile is created using the TrueDepth camera on a compatible iPhone and then synced across supported Apple devices.
You can still respond to Siri commands using head gestures. So when you nod or shake your head, the iPhone can stay in your pocket.
Live Translation with Apple Intelligence
Another key new feature is live translation. After downloading the necessary languages in the Translate app, you can activate the feature using Siri, the iPhone’s Action button, or by pressing both AirPods at the same time. The translation is then played directly through the headphones.
Requirements include a compatible Apple device with Apple Intelligence enabled, the latest version of the operating system, and the latest AirPods firmware. Apple also notes that the feature is not available in all languages and regions.
Two versions starting at 149 euros
The standard Apple AirPods 5 cost 149 euros. For 169 euros, you can get a version with more features that includes a wireless charging case. In addition to USB-C, this case can also be charged using Qi and Apple Watch chargers.
According to Apple, the battery in the more expensive model lasts up to five hours with noise cancellation turned on—one hour longer than the AirPods 4 with ANC. Combined with the charging case, up to 22 hours of playback should be possible. This model also features volume control via a swipe gesture on the bottom of the earbuds.
Apple promises improved protection against dust, sweat, and water for both models. Overall, the AirPods 5 are said to be made from 40 percent recycled materials. This includes 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery and 70 percent recycled plastic in the wireless charging case.
The Apple AirPods 5 are now available for pre-order and will go on sale on Friday, September 18, 2026. For more information, visit Apple’s product page.
