Apple has launched the AirPods 5 as its latest standard AirPods range. It brings improved computational audio, ANC, and also a second model with a wireless charging case. The new earbuds retain Apple’s familiar half in-ear design. The AirPods 5 are aimed at users who want a simple pair of wireless earbuds that work closely with Apple devices, ANC without the sealed in-ear fit, while the higher-end version gives you additional features.
The AirPods 5 start at $129 (about Rs 12,600) in the US. The AirPods 5 with wireless charging cost $149 (about Rs 14,200), putting the two models $20 apart. The pricing keeps the standard AirPods as Apple’s entry point into its premium wireless audio ecosystem.
In India, customers can pre-order AirPods 5 today for Rs 14,900, with availability in stores starting Friday, September 18, 2026. As for the wireless charging case variant, you can pre-order today for Rs 17,900 with availability in stores starting Friday, September 18.
AirPods 5 is said to offer a ‘richer, more detailed sound across a wider range of ear geometries’. You also get better active noise cancellation, with 50% more noise reduction than AirPods 4. Since there is less physical isolation compared to in-ear-designed AirPods Pro, these AirPods will have to rely more on mics, software, and improved processing to deal with music and background noise.
ANC in open-ear fit is for those who don’t like the silicone eartips inside their ear canal can consider this half-in-ear form factor.
The higher-end version supports wireless charging, longer battery life of up to 5 hours with ANC, and on-stem volume control. Both variants have USB-C charging, by the way. Other goodies in the mix are Personalised Spatial Audio, Live Translation, Transparency Mode, Conversation Awareness, IP57 ingress rating, Adaptive EQ, hands-free Siri AI support and more.
So, the AirPods 5 don’t have a radical redesign or a breakthrough feature. It is an iterative upgrade with improvements that could come in handy in daily use.
The much-rumoured camera-equipped AirPods do not arrive with the AirPods 5. Those products are instead expected to remain part of Apple’s longer-term wearable plans. Stay tuned for that!
Meanwhile, keep reading Digit.in for similar stories.
Also Read: Apple Event 2026: iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max launched in India, check price and specs here