Apple AirPods (2019)
Ahead of its March 25th event, Apple launched the latest version of its popular headphones. There really isn’t enough changes from the original product to justify a ‘version 2’ title, and Apple are just sticking with Airpods.
Features
Strangely, the biggest upgrade is not the AirPods themselves, but the case you store them in. Although, they will still ship in the standard charging case, for an additional £40/$40 you can upgrade to a Wireless Charging Case with the new AirPods!
Owners of the original AirPods can also upgrade to the new QI-compatible Wireless Charging case if they wish as, externally, both sets are identical! Both cases provide up to 24 hours of playback, the only difference is how you can charge the case up!
There is one subtle change inside the AirPods which doesn’t really provide a big upgrade, but fine tunes the Apple earbuds for better performance! The new Apple-developed H1 chip has been designed specifically for headphones and helps to keep it in line with some of the other wireless earbuds on the market.
Most importantly, the new chip improves battery life which in turn provides more talk time and up to 5 hours of playback on a single charge. There is also improved connection speeds between the AirPods and your Apple devices.
For those who use Siri, you’ll be pleased to know the new AirPods support the Hands-Free “Hey Siri” command for easier use.
The new Apple-designed H1 chip features custom audio architecture to create a revolutionary audio experience and improved synchronisation. H1 allows AirPods to deliver up to 50
percent more talk time compared to first generation AirPods. ~ Apple Press.
Specifications
The 2019 AirPods do not offer enough of a reason for current AirPod owners to
- Wireless Charging Case Dimensions – 44.3 x 21.3 x 53.5mm
- Wireless Charging Case Weight – 40g
- AirPods Weight – 4g each
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Up to 3 Hours Talk time
- Dual Beamforming Microphones
How Much do the Apple AirPods (2019) Cost?
Despite the new H1 chip Apple have kept the price of the new AirPods the same as the original, £159/$159. These will come with the standard case.
If you want the Wireless Charging case then the AirPods are £199/$199.
Owners of the original AirPods can upgrade their case to the new Wireless option for £79/$79.
Join the Conversation
Do you use Apple AirPods? Would you consider an upgrade for the better performance even though there is no improvement to the audio?
Comment below or join the conversation on Twitter.
Visit apple.com for more information.
Thanks for the update on the new tech. Apple really does need to shake the floor with something new. There quality aspect of products is becoming such a low standard compared to the rest of the tech gadgets out now. Thank you again and keep up the spread of information.
I agree. I think they are now behind on smartphones and the current crop of MacBooks are the worst I’ve used in the last few years. But, this is Apple! They are due something big and I’m sure they will deliver!