# AirPods 5

The text version of the iDevice Guide at https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap. Same data as the page, last updated 2026-09-29.

> AirPods 5 went on sale September 18 from $129. What changed from AirPods 4.

- Status: On sale
- List price: $129 (The maker's own starting price.)
- Released Sep 18, 2026 (source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-introduces-airpods-5-with-best-in-class-open-ear-active-noise-cancellation/))
- Guide: https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap
- Last updated: 2026-09-29

## Can it do this?

- **How long does the battery last?** It runs 20 hours with the case and noise cancelling on. That is 4 hours of listening with noise cancelling on, and 5 hours, measured on listening anc on wireless case. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-how-long-does-the-battery-last))
- **What does it cost?** It costs $129 to $149. That is the list price, before any subscription. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-what-does-it-cost))
- **Can it get wet — shower, pool, swimming?** Yes, it survives a shower and a soaking. Its rating is IP57. It holds up for thirty minutes at one metre. Swimming laps and diving need a different rating, and it does not carry one. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-can-it-get-wet-shower-pool-swimming))
- **Does it work with my phone?** It works fully with an iPhone and partly with Android. It pairs with Android, but the app and the iPhone-only features are not there. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-does-it-work-with-my-phone))
- **How heavy is it?** It weighs 4.3g. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-how-heavy-is-it))
- **Does it have noise cancelling?** Yes, it cancels noise. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-does-it-have-noise-cancelling))
- **How good is the camera?** It has no camera. Outlets report this, but the maker has not confirmed it. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-how-good-is-the-camera))
- **How does it connect?** It connects over Bluetooth. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-how-does-it-connect))
- **What chip is inside?** It runs on H2. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-what-chip-is-inside))
- **Can people tell when it is recording?** No. AirPods 5 has no light or any other outward sign that the microphones are live. The LED that lights when visual data leaves the earbud is a reported feature of the camera AirPods, which are a different product and are not out. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-can-people-tell-when-it-is-recording))
- **Does it do spatial audio?** Yes, it does spatial audio. It tracks your head, so the sound stays put when you turn. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-does-it-do-spatial-audio))
- **Can it see and answer questions about what I am looking at?** No, it cannot see what you are looking at. The maker has not published this, so treat it as a best guess. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#can-can-it-see-and-answer-questions-about-what-i-am-looking-at))

## Works with

Made for iPhone, with iOS 27 or later required. They also work with Android phones for listening and calls, but Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device.

- **Can you connect AirPods to a PS5?** Doesn't work. PS5 can't pair with AirPods directly. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-playstation-5))
- **Do AirPods work with Android?** With a limit. Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-android))
- **Do AirPods work with Samsung phones?** With a limit. Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-samsung-galaxy-phones))
- **Can you connect AirPods to an Xbox?** Doesn't work. Xbox consoles can't pair with AirPods for audio. Source: [Microsoft](https://support.xbox.com/en-US/help/hardware-network/accessories/connect-compatible-headset). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-xbox))
- **Can you connect AirPods to a PC?** With a limit. Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-windows-pc))
- **Can you connect AirPods to a Nintendo Switch?** With a limit. Game audio works, but the AirPods microphone does not. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-nintendo-switch))
- **Do AirPods work with an Apple Watch?** Works. AirPods set up on your iPhone also work with Apple Watch. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/airpods/pair-airpods-with-an-apple-device-dev7c85810f2/web). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-apple-watch))
- **Do AirPods work with Pixel phones?** With a limit. Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-google-pixel))
- **Can you connect AirPods to an iPad?** Works. They work fully with an iPad on the latest iPadOS. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/airpods/pair-airpods-with-an-apple-device-dev7c85810f2/web). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-ipad))
- **Do AirPods work with iPhone?** Works. They work fully with iOS 27 or later. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-au/104989). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#q-iphone))

## Questions

### How much do AirPods 5 cost?

$129 for AirPods 5 with the USB-C charging case, and $149 for AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, which adds the on-stem volume swipe and an extra hour of playback. Both are US prices announced by Apple on 9 September 2026. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-introduces-airpods-5-with-best-in-class-open-ear-active-noise-cancellation/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faq-how-much-do-airpods-5-cost))

### Should I buy AirPods 4 instead now that AirPods 5 is out?

Only on price. AirPods 5 starts at $129 and both models now include Active Noise Cancellation, rated at up to 1.5x more than on AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, and keeps the H2 chip. AirPods 4 is worth it if you find it heavily discounted. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/09/apple-introduces-airpods-5-with-best-in-class-open-ear-active-noise-cancellation/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faq-should-i-buy-airpods-4-instead-now-that-airpods-5-is-out))

### Do the AirPods 5 come with a charger?

No. The box has a charging case, but no charging cable and no power adapter. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/us-edu/shop/buy-airpods/airpods-5/without-wireless-charging-case). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faq-do-the-airpods-5-come-with-a-charger))

### Do both AirPods 5 models have noise cancellation?

Yes. Both AirPods 5 models include Active Noise Cancellation. Apple rates it at up to 1.5x more than AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, and calls it the best Active Noise Cancellation in an open-ear design. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods-5/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faqs-do-both-airpods-5-models-have-noise-cancellation))

### What is the difference between the two AirPods 5 models?

The case and the controls. The $129 model charges over USB-C only. The $149 Wireless Charging Case model also charges from an Apple Watch charger or a Qi pad, carries a speaker for Find My, adds a force sensor with volume swipe, and runs 5 hours with ANC against 4, or 22 hours with the case against 20. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods-5/specs/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faqs-what-is-the-difference-between-the-two-airpods-5-models))

### What chip is in AirPods 5?

The H2, the same headphone chip used in recent AirPods models. Mark Gurman reported in October 2025 that Apple is developing a new H3 chip, but he did not say which future AirPods model would get it first. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods-5/specs/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faqs-what-chip-is-in-airpods-5))

### How long do AirPods 5 last on a charge?

Up to 4 hours with ANC on for the $129 model and up to 20 hours with its case. The $149 Wireless Charging Case model runs up to 5 hours and up to 22 hours with the case. Five minutes in either case gives around an hour. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods-5/specs/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faqs-how-long-do-airpods-5-last-on-a-charge))

### Are AirPods 5 water resistant?

They are rated IP57 for dust, sweat and water. That covers sweat, rain and a brief dunk, not a swim. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods-5/specs/). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap#faqs-are-airpods-5-water-resistant))

## Top reports

- **AirPods will be able to translate speech live** (Right.) Bloomberg reports it is aimed at in-person conversations. First reported by [9to5Mac AirPods](https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/11/ios-26-beta-hints-at-upcoming-airpods-live-translation-gesture/) on Aug 11, 2025.
- **No new AirPods Max is in development** (Wrong.) Gurman says owners hoping for a second generation should not hold their breath. First reported by [Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-08-24/apple-to-launch-iphone-17-pro-iphone-17-air-in-september-iphone-fold-next-year-mepmzpcj) on Aug 24, 2025.
- **AirPods 5 could come in two tiers rather than one model** (Right.) There would be an entry-level pair and a step-up pair. First reported by [Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-10-12/inside-apple-s-glasses-pivot-when-apple-is-launching-m5-macbook-pro-ipad-pro) on Oct 12, 2025.
- **AirPods 4 rest in the outer ear rather than sealing the canal** (Right.) They are more comfortable all day, but they block less noise than sealed designs. First reported by [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/06/08/apple-to-bring-custom-eq-to-airpods/) on Jun 8, 2026.
- **Both AirPods 4 models run the H2 chip** (Right.) It is the same chip as AirPods Pro 3, and it runs spatial audio and head gestures. First reported by [9to5Mac](https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/28/airpods-ultra-launching-later-this-year-sounds-more-likely-than-ever/) on Apr 28, 2026.
- **Only the more expensive AirPods 4 has active noise cancellation** (Right.) Without a physical seal it will not match AirPods Pro, but it works in offices and cafes. First reported by [MacRumors](https://www.macrumors.com/2024/09/20/apple-explains-airpods-4-noise-cancellation/) on Sep 20, 2024.
- **The ANC model adds Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness** (Right.) Both were previously exclusive to AirPods Pro. First reported by [AppleInsider](https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/06/08/airpods-finally-gain-custom-eq-feature-in-ios-26?utm_source=rss) on Jun 8, 2026.
- **The next high-end AirPods are expected to use a new H3 chip** (Still open.) Gurman reported in October 2025 that it cuts lag and improves sound. First reported by [Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-10-12/inside-apple-s-glasses-pivot-when-apple-is-launching-m5-macbook-pro-ipad-pro) on Oct 12, 2025.

---

Source: iDevice (https://idevice.com). Every spec, rumor and grade above links to where it came from. Full Guide: https://idevice.com/earbuds/apple-airpods/roadmap. This file: https://idevice.com/guide-text/apple-airpods.md.

## Questions and answers

### Using it

**Does it have noise cancelling?** Yes, it cancels noise. Source: AirPods

**What does it cost?** It costs $129 to $149. That is the list price, before any subscription. Source: AirPods

**Does it work with my phone?** It works fully with an iPhone and partly with Android. It pairs with Android, but the app and the iPhone-only features are not there. Source: AirPods

**How heavy is it?** It weighs 4.3g. Source: AirPods

**How good is the camera?** It has no camera. Outlets report this, but the maker has not confirmed it. Source: AirPods

**How does it connect?** It connects over Bluetooth. Source: AirPods

**What chip is inside?** It runs on H2. Source: AirPods

**Can people tell when it is recording?** No, there is no recording light. Nothing outward-facing shows when it is capturing. The maker has not published this, so treat it as a best guess. Source: AirPods

**Does it do spatial audio?** Yes, it does spatial audio. It tracks your head, so the sound stays put when you turn. Source: AirPods

**Can it see and answer questions about what I am looking at?** No, it cannot see what you are looking at. The maker has not published this, so treat it as a best guess. Source: AirPods

### Battery and charging

**How long does the battery last?** It runs 20 hours with the case and noise cancelling on. That is 4 hours of listening with noise cancelling on, and 5 hours, measured on listening anc on wireless case. Source: AirPods

### Water

**Can it get wet — shower, pool, swimming?** Yes, it survives a shower and a soaking. Its rating is IP57. It holds up for thirty minutes at one metre. Swimming laps and diving need a different rating, and it does not carry one. Source: AirPods

### Price and models

**When did the AirPods 5 come out?** It went on sale September 18, 2026. Announced September 9, 2026. Source: iDevice

**Is there a newer one?** No. The AirPods 5 is the current model. Source: iDevice

### Returns and warranty

**How long do I have to return it?** 14-day returns The clock starts the day it arrives. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/sales-policies/retail_us.html)

**Is there a restocking fee?** Restocking fee: not stated by Apple Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/help/returns_refund)

**Who pays return shipping?** Who pays return shipping: not stated by Apple Start the return online and print a return label, then schedule a carrier pickup or drop it at the carrier. You can also return it at any U.S. Apple Store. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/help/returns_refund)

**Can I return it if I opened or wore it?** Send it back like new Return it in its original condition with all included parts, accessories and packaging. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/sales-policies/retail_us.html)

**How do I get my money back?** How you get your money back Card refunds go to your bank within five business days after Apple receives the item. Returns may be inspected; approved refunds or exchanges are issued within 10 business days. Cash returns over $750 are paid by check within 10 business days. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/sales-policies/retail_us.html)

**How long is the warranty?** 1-year warranty Starts the day you buy it. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/warranty/products/ios-warranty-document-us.html)

**Is there a paid protection plan?** Add AppleCare+ or AppleCare One AppleCare+ accidental damage fee for AirPods is $29. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/legal/applecare/fees-deductibles/)

**Is water damage covered?** Water resistance wears off Apple says sweat, water and dust resistance are not permanent and can wear down over time, and AirPods and cases cannot be rechecked or resealed. Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/105046)

**Is the battery covered?** Battery covered only for defects The standard warranty covers a battery only if it fails from a defect. The 80 percent rule belongs to AppleCare, not to the free warranty: AppleCare plans cover batteries that keep less than 80% of their original capacity. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/applecare/)

### In the box

**What's in the box?** AirPods 5 earbuds, Documentation, Not included: USB-C charge cable, Not included: Power adapter. Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods-5/specs/)

### Works with

**Can you connect AirPods to a Nintendo Switch?** Game audio works, but the AirPods microphone does not. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786)

**Do AirPods work with an Apple Watch?** AirPods set up on your iPhone also work with Apple Watch. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/airpods/pair-airpods-with-an-apple-device-dev7c85810f2/web)

**Do AirPods work with Pixel phones?** Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786)

**Can you connect AirPods to an iPad?** They work fully with an iPad on the latest iPadOS. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/airpods/pair-airpods-with-an-apple-device-dev7c85810f2/web)

**Do AirPods work with iPhone?** They work fully with iOS 27 or later. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-au/104989)

**Can you connect AirPods to a Mac?** Pair them by Bluetooth on macOS Golden Gate or later. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-gb/108786)

**Do AirPods work with a TV?** Apple TV works best. Other TVs need Bluetooth audio. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786)

**Do AirPods work with a Garmin watch?** They work as headphones with Garmin music watches. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786)

**How do AirPods manage settings?** Use Settings on an iPhone, iPad or Mac, not a separate app. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ca/108786)

**How does it charge?** Both cases use USB-C. Only one case model also charges wirelessly. Works Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/ca/airpods-5/specs/)

**How does it get firmware updates?** Updates install while charging near a Wi-Fi-connected Apple device. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-au/106340)

**Do AirPods support automatic switching between devices?** They switch between compatible Apple devices on the same Apple Account. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/guide/airpods/dev228ba3df8/web)

**Do AirPods support Spatial Audio?** They support Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Works Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods/)

**Do AirPods support lossless audio?** Lossless Audio works only with Apple Vision Pro. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/airpods/pair-airpods-with-an-apple-device-dev7c85810f2/27/web/27)

**Do AirPods support Siri and AI features?** Siri features work on supported Apple devices. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-us/148760)

**Do AirPods support Live Translation?** It needs an iPhone 15 Pro or later with Apple Intelligence on. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/123185)

**Do AirPods support Find My?** Find My works with iOS 27 or later. Works Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/ca/airpods-5/specs/)

**Do AirPods support Hearing Test, Hearing Aid or Hearing Protection?** Those hearing features are not available on AirPods 5. Doesn't work Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods/)

**Do AirPods support heart rate sensing?** Heart rate sensing is not available on AirPods 5. Doesn't work Source: [Apple](https://www.apple.com/airpods/)

**Do AirPods support a low-latency mode for gaming?** Ultra-low latency is documented only with Apple Vision Pro. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/guide/airpods/pair-airpods-with-an-apple-device-dev7c85810f2/27/web/27)

**Does it work with the other AirPods 5 charging case?** Each case works only with the earbuds made for that case model. Doesn't work Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-ie/109525)

**How does it handle a replacement earbud or case?** Apple sells replacements, but the case must match your AirPods 5 model. Works Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/airpods/repair)

**Do AirPods support all Apple devices, regions and languages?** Software, region and language limits affect some AirPods features. With a limit Source: [Apple](https://support.apple.com/en-au/104989)