Apple Rolls Out AirPods 5 at $129, Bringing Noise Cancellation to Its Base Model

Apple has introduced the AirPods 5, its latest entry in the wireless earbuds category, featuring upgraded active noise cancellation and improved sound quality — this time included in the standard model rather than reserved for a higher-priced tier.

The earbuds will reach store shelves on September 18 at a starting price of $129, according to an Apple announcement tied to the company’s “Surprise and Shine” event. A version with a wireless charging case — which adds extended battery life and on-stem volume controls — will sell for $149. Preorders are currently open.

The pricing marks a shift from Apple’s previous approach. When the AirPods 4 launched in 2024, the base model started at $129, but buyers who wanted active noise cancellation had to step up to a $179 variant. With the AirPods 5, Apple has folded that feature into the entry-level offering, effectively lowering the cost of entry for noise cancellation by $50 compared with the prior generation.

The announcement also highlights a new transparency mode alongside the improved noise cancellation, part of Apple’s effort to differentiate the open-ear design in a crowded earbuds market.

Wearables and accessories remain a meaningful piece of Apple’s broader business, and the earbuds line has served as an on-ramp to the company’s ecosystem for customers who may not own its higher-priced devices. A lower price point for a flagship feature like noise cancellation could widen that funnel heading into the holiday shopping season.

Shares of Apple Inc. (AAPL) traded at $315.34, down 0.32% from the prior close of $316.34, valuing the consumer electronics giant at roughly $4.60 trillion.

What to watch

• September 18 retail availability and early demand signals for the AirPods 5
• Holiday-quarter results, where Apple typically discloses wearables revenue trends
• Any follow-up announcements or product refreshes tied to the “Surprise and Shine” event

Source: original release