The AirPods Pro are a line of premium wireless Bluetooth earbuds designed and marketed by Apple Inc. They feature an in-ear design with silicone ear tips, active noise cancellation, and a Transparency Mode, distinguishing them from Apple's standard AirPods. The first generation was released in October 2019, followed by a second generation in September 2022, which saw a minor revision with a USB-C charging case in September 2023.
Overview
AirPods Pro are positioned as Apple's higher-end wireless earbud offering, providing advanced audio features and a customizable fit. They are designed for seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, offering quick pairing, automatic device switching, and hands-free Siri access.
Generations
First Generation (2019)
The original AirPods Pro were announced on October 28, 2019, and released on October 30, 2019. Key features included:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Uses two microphones to detect external sound and counter it with anti-noise.
- Transparency Mode: Allows users to hear their surroundings while listening to audio.
- Adaptive EQ: Automatically tunes the low and mid-frequencies of the music to the shape of an individual's ear.
- H1 chip: Powers audio processing, Siri, and connectivity.
- Force Sensor: Integrated into the stem for controlling music playback, calls, and switching between ANC and Transparency Mode.
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance: Suitable for workouts and minor splashes.
- Wireless Charging Case: Included as standard, with MagSafe compatibility added in a minor revision in 2021.
Second Generation (2022)
The second generation AirPods Pro were unveiled on September 7, 2022, and released on September 23, 2022. They introduced significant upgrades, most notably:
- Apple H2 chip: Provides enhanced audio processing, enabling more powerful ANC, improved Transparency Mode, and more immersive Spatial Audio.
- Improved Active Noise Cancellation: Advertised as up to twice as effective as the first generation.
- Adaptive Transparency Mode: Dynamically reduces loud environmental noises (e.g., sirens, power tools) while allowing other sounds to pass through.
- Personalized Spatial Audio: Creates a personalized profile based on the user's head and ear shape using an iPhone's TrueDepth camera.
- Touch Control: Added to the stem, allowing users to swipe up or down to adjust volume.
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC on (30 hours total with the charging case).
- Updated Charging Case: Includes a U1 chip for more precise Find My tracking, a built-in speaker for alerts, and a lanyard loop.
- Additional Ear Tip Size: Extra small (XS) silicone ear tips were included.
Second Generation with USB-C (2023)
On September 12, 2023, Apple introduced a minor revision to the second generation AirPods Pro. This version maintained all the features of the 2022 model, with the primary change being the inclusion of a charging case that features a USB-C port for charging, replacing the proprietary Lightning port. This update also added dust resistance (IP54 rating) to the earbuds and case.
Key Features
Active Noise Cancellation
AirPods Pro utilize inward- and outward-facing microphones to detect ambient sound and create an anti-noise signal to cancel it out, providing a more immersive listening experience.
Transparency Mode
This mode allows users to hear their surroundings by using the external microphones to amplify outside sounds, making it easier to engage in conversations or be aware of traffic. The second generation's Adaptive Transparency further refines this by reducing harsh noises.
Spatial Audio
With dynamic head tracking, Spatial Audio creates a three-dimensional audio experience, making it sound as if audio is coming from all around the user. The second generation introduced Personalized Spatial Audio, optimizing the experience for individual ear shapes.
Adaptive EQ
This feature automatically tunes the music's low and mid-frequencies to the unique fit of the ear tips and the user's ear canal, providing consistent and rich audio quality.
Apple H1/H2 Chips
These custom-designed chips are central to the AirPods Pro's functionality. The H1 chip (1st gen) and the more advanced H2 chip (2nd gen) manage audio processing, Bluetooth connectivity, real-time noise cancellation algorithms, and power efficiency.
Design and Controls
AirPods Pro feature a shorter stem than standard AirPods and utilize silicone ear tips for a more secure and sound-isolating in-ear fit, offered in multiple sizes. Control is managed via a force sensor on the stem (1st gen) or combined force sensor and touch control (2nd gen).
Charging Case
All generations include a compact charging case that supports wireless charging. The second-generation case further includes a U1 chip for precise Find My capabilities, a built-in speaker for audible alerts, and a lanyard loop for attachment.
Water and Sweat Resistance
All models are rated IPX4 for sweat and water resistance, making them suitable for exercise and exposure to minor splashes. The 2023 USB-C model of the 2nd generation also extended IP54 dust resistance to both the earbuds and the case.
Connectivity
AirPods Pro connect to devices via Bluetooth 5.0 (1st gen) or Bluetooth 5.3 (2nd gen). They offer quick pairing and seamless switching between Apple devices signed into the same iCloud account.