# Apple AirPods 5: Open-Ear Noise Cancellation for $129

> Apple updates its entry-level earbuds with up to 50 percent better open-ear ANC, Siri AI integration, and stem volume controls.
- Title: Apple AirPods 5: Open-Ear Noise Cancellation for $129
- Summary: Apple updates its entry-level earbuds with up to 50 percent better open-ear ANC, Siri AI integration, and stem volume controls. AirPods 5 bring premium…
- Keywords: apple, airpods, audio, technology, startups, Open-Ear, Noise, Cancellation, 129, Apple Newsroom
- Source: Apple Newsroom — https://apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-introduces-airpods-5-with-best-in-class-open-ear-active-noise-cancellation
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: apple, airpods, audio, technology, startups
## Apple debuts AirPods 5
Apple introduced AirPods 5, bringing open-ear Active Noise Cancellation and improved audio performance to its entry-level wireless earbuds lineup starting at $129.

> We’re thrilled that with AirPods 5, we’re able to bring Active Noise Cancellation — one of our most beloved features — to our most affordable AirPods.
## Open-ear noise cancellation upgrades
The new earbuds remove up to 50 percent more external noise than AirPods 4 with ANC, despite maintaining a tip-free open-ear design.
## Re-engineered acoustic architecture
A brand-new multiport acoustic layout combined with upgraded computational audio algorithms drives both the noise cancellation and sound delivery.
## Natural Transparency and Adaptive Audio
An upgraded Transparency mode delivers more natural voice audio, while Adaptive Audio dynamically mixes ambient sound and noise cancellation based on your surroundings.
## Instant Conversation Awareness
Conversation Awareness automatically lowers your media volume as soon as you start speaking, letting you chat without taking out your earbuds.
## Pro-inspired sound performance
Inspired by AirPods Pro 3, next-generation Adaptive EQ compensates for different ear shapes to deliver richer sound across a wider frequency range.
## Immersive Personalized Spatial Audio
Dynamic head tracking and custom sound profiles create an immersive audio environment that places sound all around you.
## Hands-free Siri AI integration
Paired with iOS 27, Siri AI understands personal context across messages, emails, and photos, letting you ask for play requests or directions hands-free.
## Respond with simple head gestures
Siri Interactions allow users to discreetly accept or reject calls and announcements by nodding yes or shaking their head no.
## Real-time Live Translation
Powered by Apple Intelligence, users can press both stems or ask Siri to translate spoken conversations into their preferred language in real time.
## On-stem volume swipe control
The $149 model with Wireless Charging Case brings stem volume swiping to open-ear AirPods for the first time, allowing quick volume adjustments.
## Longer playback on every charge
The redesigned battery provides up to five hours of playback with ANC enabled on a single charge, one hour more than the previous generation.
## Versatile wireless charging flexibility
The upgraded case works with Apple Watch chargers, Qi-certified wireless mats, and USB-C cables for convenient power top-ups.
## Enhanced dust and water protection
AirPods 5 feature upgraded resistance to dust, sweat, and water, making them far more durable for workouts and daily outdoor use.
## Sustainable materials and packaging
Each pair uses 40 percent recycled material overall, including 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery and 100 percent fiber-based home-recyclable packaging.
## Pricing, pre-orders, and availability
AirPods 5 start at $129, with the Wireless Charging Case model priced at $149. Pre-orders are open now, with retail store availability starting September 18.
## Key takeaway

AirPods 5 bring premium features, like open-ear Active Noise Cancellation, stem volume controls, and Live Translation, to Apple's entry-level lineup starting at $129.