In a world where wireless technology is becoming the norm, Apple has revolutionized the way we listen to music and interact with our devices with the introduction of AirPods. Available in both regular and Pro versions, AirPods have taken the market by storm with their seamless connectivity, innovative features, and iconic Apple design. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the evolution of Apple AirPods, diving into the specs, pros, and cons of each generation. Learn how to clean your current AirPods here.
Generation 1: The Pioneer of Wireless Convenience Launched in 2016, the first generation of AirPods marked Apple’s entry into the world of wireless earbuds. They came with the trademark wireless charging case and featured the W1 chip, which allowed them to seamlessly connect to Apple devices. With a single tap, users could activate Siri, control music, and make phone calls from their iPhone . Pros included a simple pairing process, long battery life, and a compact design. However, some users noted that the fit wasn’t ideal for everyone and that the sound quality could be better.
Generation 2: A Step Forward in Performance The second-generation AirPods, launched in 2019, built on the success of their predecessors. They retained the same design but introduced the H1 chip, bringing faster connectivity, longer battery life, and hands-free “Hey Siri ” functionality. They also added a wireless charging case as an option, allowing users to easily top up their AirPods with a wireless charger. Sound quality also saw improvements, though some users still noted that the fit wasn’t perfect for everyone.
Generation 3: In the fall of 2021, Apple released the third generation of Airpods. The design of the 3rd generation is derived from the Airpods Pro , so they look quite different from the 2nd generation. You have up to 6 hours of listening time, previously it was 5 hours. The case offers a total of up to 30 hours of listening time, previously 24 hours. So you can charge your earphones more often before your case also needs to be charged. The AirPods 3 have some tricks in terms of sound that were previously reserved for the AirPods Pro, and which you miss on the AirPods 2. Adaptive EQ adjusts the sound to the shape of your ears. There is a microphone in the AirPods that listens to you, as it were, and adjusts the music accordingly: mid and low frequencies are adjusted. And spatial audio makes it seem like you are in the middle of the music - a bit like in the cinema. All generations of "normal" AirPods lack noise canceling, for this you have to go to the AirPods Pros.
AirPods Pro: A Leap in Immersive Experience In 2019, Apple introduced the AirPods Pro, a premium option for users looking for a more immersive audio experience. The Pro models came with an in-ear design and custom-molded silicone ear tips for a better fit and noise isolation. They also introduced active noise cancellation, which reduced ambient noise and gave users a fully immersive listening experience. Transparency mode allowed users to stay aware of their surroundings when needed. While the AirPods Pro offered great features and sound quality, it was noted that the battery life was slightly shorter than the previous generations. The earbuds last for 4.5 hours with noise canceling, while with the charging case they last for 24 hours.
AirPods Pro 2 : According to Apple, the noise suppression of the AirPods Pro 2 has improved considerably and can filter out up to twice as much noise. In addition, major leaps have been made with the adaptive transparency mode. The microphone now picks up transparency sounds much better and lets you hear them through the speakers. Because the transparency sounds are adaptive, you can still hear the engine racing past, but less loudly. The Pro 2 earphones have also been given touch controls, which allow you to adjust the sound by swiping over the stem. The Pro 2 also has an H2 chip instead of an H1 chip. The earphones last 6 hours with noise cancelling and no less than 30 hours with the charging case.
Whether you’re looking for simplicity, enhanced performance, or an immersive experience, there’s an AirPods model that’s right for you. Discover the evolution of wireless listening and enjoy the freedom and convenience that Apple AirPods have to offer.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of wireless audio and let yourself be enchanted by the music with Apple AirPods! If you are looking for new AirPods because you lost one, be sure to check out this blog post where you can tell what else you can do.
