Apple has officially launched the AirPods 5, introducing two variants at $129 and $149. The more expensive model features significant upgrades in audio quality and noise cancellation, while the cheaper version largely retains its predecessor's experience.
Apple has unveiled the AirPods 5, the latest iteration of its popular wireless earbuds, arriving in two distinct models. While both share the familiar design, only the higher-priced $149 (around ₹12,500, excluding duties and taxes) variant receives all the significant improvements, according to a report by GSMArena.
The source notes that the more affordable $129 (around ₹10,800, excluding duties and taxes) AirPods 5 largely misses out on the advancements that would make an upgrade from the AirPods 4 worthwhile. This creates a clear distinction for buyers: pay more for the new features, or stick with a largely similar experience at a lower cost.
AirPods 5: What the $149 Model Brings
For those opting for the $149 AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, Apple promises a comprehensive upgrade. This variant comes with better noise cancellation, enhanced audio quality, improved battery life, and more advanced gestures. These are key areas that many users look for in a true wireless earbud upgrade.
Interestingly, the AirPods 5 surprisingly offer many of the same features as the more premium AirPods Pro 3, thanks to using the same Apple H2 chip. This includes Spatial Audio with head tracking (personalizable using an iPhone camera), personalized volume that adjusts based on ambient noise, and conversation awareness that reduces media volume if it detects you speaking. Other smart features include automatic media pausing when you fall asleep, head gestures for call and notification interaction, and Find My for locating lost earbuds.
Design and Fit: Familiar Look, IP57 Rating
Aesthetically, the AirPods 5 maintain an identical design to the fourth-generation model, both for the earbuds and the charging case. GSMArena notes that the dimensions are the same, with the wireless charging case being only a couple of grams heavier. They retain the classic open-ear earbud shape with short angled stalks and the signature white finish.
However, the open-ear design continues to be a point of contention when it comes to fit. GSMArena highlights that how well the AirPods 5 sit in your ears is a "complete luck of the draw" because ear shapes vary significantly. For some, they will fit perfectly and comfortably for hours; for others, they might not fit at all, or fall out easily. The source suggests visiting an Apple Store to try them on, a piece of advice that holds true for Indian buyers considering the purchase.
On the durability front, the AirPods 5 are IP57 rated for dust and water resistance, applying to both the earbuds and the charging case. This is a welcome addition, offering peace of mind for daily use and workouts.
The Apple Ecosystem Advantage
As expected, the AirPods 5 are primarily designed for use with Apple products. While they can pair with other Bluetooth audio sources, many of their advanced features will not function as intended, or at all. This means users outside the Apple ecosystem might find themselves paying for features they can't fully utilise.
Within the Apple ecosystem, compatibility remains seamless. Opening the case triggers the familiar one-tap pairing pop-up on nearby iPhones or iPads. Once paired with an Apple ID, the AirPods automatically become available across all associated Apple devices, allowing for smooth audio handovers between an iPhone and a Mac, for example.
What This Means for Indian Buyers
For Indian consumers, the arrival of the AirPods 5 presents a clear choice. If you're invested in the Apple ecosystem and want the latest features, the $149 model appears to offer substantial upgrades over its predecessor, drawing parallels with the more premium AirPods Pro 3's feature set. However, if the design of the AirPods 4 already suited you and you don't need the advanced noise cancellation or other new features, the $129 model might be a more budget-friendly option, though it offers less incentive to upgrade.
Considering the open-ear fit, potential buyers in India should definitely try to experience the fit at an Apple store or authorised reseller once they are available. The decision largely hinges on whether the new features of the $149 model justify the premium, especially when factoring in local pricing and taxes that will apply upon their eventual India launch.
