The long-awaited second-generation Airpods are finally here, and Apple promises faster connect with more talk time and hands-free Siri in the new wireless earbuds.
The “Hey Siri” functionality allows users to control volume and swap songs through voice commands. There’s no longer a need to tap on the AirPods to activate Siri in this version.
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“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,” said 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 updated Airpods are powered by Apple’s new chip, the H1. The Airpods will have better battery life and include the option of a new wireless charging case, Apple said in a statement.
The new chip features custom audio architecture to create a revolutionary audio experience and improved synchronization. H1 allows AirPods to deliver up to 50 percent more talk time compared to first generation AirPods. The two times faster connect times makes it more seamless to switch between devices while listening to music on iPhone, Apple Watch or iPad.
The new AirPods come with either the standard charging case or the new Wireless Charging Case.
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Price and Availability
The new AirPods with a standard charging case are priced at $159, while those with wireless charging case run you $199.
The second generation Airpods will be available in Apple Stores next week, between March 25 and March 30.
