Apple just launched the next evolution of its base model wireless headphones—the AirPods 4—plus an all-new AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation,  AirPods Pro 2 with Active Noise Cancellation and hearing-health features, and AirPods Max—these portable Bluetooth headphones now come in a range of updated colors. 

The noise cancellation feature is a welcome addition to the AirPods 4 in 2024.It adds some noise cancelling tech from the first-gen AirPods Pro to a less expensive model of wireless earbuds. Active Noise Cancellation includes Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode (for AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation and AirPods Pro 2).

Perhaps the most dramatic new technology to the AirPods lineup this year are the hearing features in the AirPods Pro 2, which you can use to test,¹ protect,² and boost your hearing—with the capabilities of a clinical-grade hearing aid! The new features for hearing health will come this fall. 

1The Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features are expected fall 2024. They will be supported on AirPods Pro 2 with the latest firmware paired with a compatible iPhone or iPad with iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 and later. The Hearing Aid feature is also supported on Mac running macOS Sequoia and later. It is pending FDA authorization.

Earbuds are a type of headphone that fits inside of your ear.

Pixel Buds, made by Google, are not entirely waterproof, but they do have a water resistance rating. The Pixel Buds 2, for example, have an IPX4 rating, which means they are resistant to splashes of water from any direction. This makes them suitable for use during light rain or while sweating during a workout. However, they are not designed to be submerged in water or exposed to high-pressure water jets. It's essential to avoid using them in heavy rain, swimming, or other situations where they might be submerged in water to prevent damage.