As part of today’s Wonderlust event, Apple released updated AirPods Pro. The second generation of Apple’s premium ear buds boast some impressive new features but I’m not convinced owners of the first generation need to rush out for an upgrade.
USB-C everywhere
If the crew from Sesame Street was in charge of todays event, they’d say the event was brought to you by the letters “U”, “S”, “B” and “C”. The new AirPods Pro come with a case that charges over USB-C as well as MagSafe.
USB‐C means you can use a single cable to charge Mac, iPad, AirPods, and the iPhone 15 line-up. Users can even charge AirPods directly with iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which also come with a USB‐C connector.
New audio features
Apple has enhanced it already excellent noice cancellation tech with three new features.
Adaptive Audio is a new listening mode that dynamically blends Transparency mode and Active Noise Cancellation and adjusts the noise control based on the sound in a user’s environment. Computational audio, allows users to stay aware of their surroundings, while distracting noises like group chitchat at the office, a vacuum at home, or the din of a local coffee shop are reduced.
Conversation Awareness helps to lower the content volume, enhance the voices in front of the user, and reduce background noise.
Personalised Volume uses machine learning to understand environmental conditions and volume selections to automatically fine-tune the listening experience for users based on their preferences over time.
Better fit
One of the issues I’ve seen some people have is that the tips that were released with original AirPods Pro weren’t a good fit for everyone. Apple has expanded the range of tips that can be used to help people find the perfect fit.
Price and availability
AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (USB‐C) will be available for RRP A$399 inc. GST from apple.com/au/store and in the Apple Store app in Australia starting Friday, 22 September.
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.