Apple launches AirPods Pro 2, with minor upgrades inside

Apple has announced the second-generation AirPods Pro, which retains the original design of its true wireless ANC headphones and improves interior features. Given that most of the upgrades are to performance, it will be hard to tell the original model from the new one. But Apple says the differences are significant, especially in some key areas.

AirPods Pro 2 headphones look mostly the same

AirPods Pro 2 benefit from a new proprietary chip called Apple H2. It’s responsible for processing the sound played through the headphone speakers, which means it should deliver better audio quality than the first model. The capabilities that will get the biggest upgrade, however, are Active Noice Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode, which will be able to isolate or amplify surrounding sounds much more effectively.

In terms of usability, the headphones get a touch sensor in addition to the tail-press control, which also allows volume adjustment. The headphones also get an extra hour of use from 4.5 to 6 hours on a single charge, and a total of 30 hours including charging from the box they sit in.

Incidentally, the box has also received two small upgrades: one would be the integration of speakers for the Find My function to make it easier to find, and the second is the integration of an accessory hole to add a headphone hook. For the first time, Apple says it’s also introducing a new size of rubber bungs, smaller than the existing S size: the XS. The new case is compatible with Qi wireless charging, MagSafe , the Apple Watch’s magnetic charger, and Lightning cables.

The new headphones retain their $249 price tag in the US and €299 in Europe, and launch on September 23. Pre-orders start on Friday, September 9.