Before September 2024, Apple enthusiasts looking to purchase active noise-canceling (ANC) AirPods had to invest $250 in the AirPods Pro. With the introduction of the ANC AirPods 4, the price has significantly dropped, making these high-quality earbuds available for just $148.99. Additionally, Apple offers a more affordable version of the AirPods 4 that lacks ANC for $99.99, down from its original price of $129.

According to price-monitoring sites, these prices represent unprecedented discounts. While the reductions may not seem enormous, the fact that there are price cuts on recently launched AirPods is notable, especially outside of typical sale events like Prime Day or Black Friday.

The latest AirPods 4 come equipped with a USB-C charging option. Both variations utilize Apple’s H2 chip, enabling Personalized Spatial Audio that delivers a 3D audio experience based on your head movements, along with the capability of using head gestures for Siri commands and call management. Furthermore, a live translation feature is anticipated for both models with the upcoming launch of iOS 19 later this year.

Purchasing the ANC AirPods 4 grants access to a charging case featuring a built-in speaker, allowing users to find their earbuds through Find My services if misplaced. Additional functionalities include Conversation Awareness, which minimizes music playback when engaged in conversation, Transparency Mode for better situational awareness, and Adaptive Audio that adjusts ANC levels based on surrounding noise. It is important to note that these earbuds are designed without a silicone tip, which may limit the level of noise cancellation offered compared to the AirPods Pro or Beats Fit Pro.