Apple has announced new AirPods, the second generation of the company’s wireless headphones. The Apple-designed H1 chip, developed specifically for headphones, delivers performance efficiencies, faster connect times, more talk time and the convenience of hands-free “Hey Siri.”
AirPods come with either a standard charging case or a new Wireless Charging Case for charging at home and on the go. The new AirPods and AirPods with Wireless Charging Case are available to order on apple.com and the Apple Store app starting today, and in Apple Stores beginning next week.
The new Apple-designed H1 chip features custom audio architecture to create a revolutionary audio experience and improved synchronization. H1 allows AirPods to deliver up to 50% more talk time compared to first generation AirPods. Switching between devices while listening to music on iPhone, Apple Watch or iPad is more seamless than ever with two times faster connect times, says Phil Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. For the first time, AirPods now feature the convenience of “Hey Siri” making it easier to change songs, make a call, adjust the volume or get directions simply by saying, “Hey Siri.”
The new AirPods come with either the standard charging case ($159) or the new Wireless Charging Case ($199). Each case holds additional charges for more than 24 hours of total listening time, ensuring AirPods are charged and ready to go whenever you are. The Wireless Charging Case is designed to offer the freedom of wireless charging with Qi-compatible charging solutions. An LED light indicator located on the front of the case conveniently shows the charge status with just a glance.
The Wireless Charging Case would certainly seem to hint at the pending arrive of the long-awaited AirPower. Existing AirPods customers can purchase the standalone Wireless Charging Case.
