Apple Introduces Updated AirPods with Wireless Qi Charging

March 20 2019, 13:35
Apple is testing another new way to introduce new products in "stealth mode" with daily announcements on its website. Starting with new updated iPads and iMacs on the first days of the week, Wednesday March 20 was the day chosen to confirm the much anticipated release of its new AirPods, powered by a new H1 chip, featuring 50 percent more talk time, hands-free wake-word “Hey Siri” and the option of a wireless charging case supporting the Qi standard.
 

The new AirPods build on the experience that made the original version the most popular and best-selling true wireless headphones in the world, now delivering 50 percent more talk time, supporting the convenience of "Hey Siri" making it easier to change songs, make a call, adjust the volume or get directions and making switching between iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad or Mac two times faster.

The second generation of AirPods feature a new Apple-designed H1 chip, developed specifically for headphones, that according to the company delivers performance efficiencies, faster connect times, more talk time and the convenience of hands-free wake-word for Siri, Apple's own voice-assistant. AirPods come with either a standard charging case or a new Wireless Charging Case for convenient charging at home and on the go. 

“AirPods delivered a magical wireless experience and have become one of the most beloved products we’ve ever made. They connect easily with all of your devices, and provide crystal clear sound and intuitive, innovative control of your music and audio,” says Phil Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “The world’s best wireless headphones just got even better with the new AirPods. They are powered by the new Apple-designed H1 chip which brings an extra hour of talk time, faster connections, hands-free ‘Hey Siri’ and the convenience of a new wireless battery case.”
 

The new Apple-designed H1 chip features a custom audio architecture to create an improved audio experience and improved synchronization. The H1 chip allows AirPods to deliver up to 50 percent more talk time compared to first generation AirPods. And switching between devices while listening to music on iPhone, Apple Watch or iPad is more seamless than ever with two times faster connect times.

The new AirPods come with either the standard charging case or the new Wireless Charging Case. Each case holds additional charges for more than 24 hours of total listening time. 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. Existing AirPods customers can purchase the standalone Wireless Charging Case.

With the new Wireless Charging Case, charging is as simple as placing the AirPods case on a Qi-compatible charging mat. That’s it. And when users are away from a charging mat, they can still use the Lightning port to charge. AirPods deliver an industry-leading 5 hours of listening time — and now up to 3 hours of talk time — all on one charge. The charging case holds multiple charges for more than 24 hours of listening time. With a quick charge of just 15 minutes, the AirPods can get up to 3 hours of listening time and 2 hours of talk time. To check the battery, users can also hold the AirPods next to their iPhone or ask Siri “How’s the battery on my AirPods?”
 

The AirPods with standard charging case will be available for $159 (US), and the AirPods with Wireless Charging Case will be available for $199 (US). Existing users can order the standalone Wireless Charging Case for $79 (US). Both models and the Wireless Charging Case are available to order on apple.com and the Apple Store app from March 20, and in Apple Stores from March 25, 2019.

New for AirPods, customers can add a personal engraving to the AirPods with standard charging case and AirPods with Wireless Charging Case for free during checkout on apple.com and the Apple Store app.
www.apple.com
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