The second-gen earbuds come with hands-free voice controls and 50% more talk time
Apple AirPods are getting an upgrade, with a second generation of the smart earbuds announced by the company.
There’s no dramatic new look or health-focused features, but inside lies a new H1 chip designed specifically for AirPods 2. Apple says that new chip is able to deliver performance efficiencies, faster connect times, more talk time and a hands-free “Hey Siri” wake-up and voice control.
Read this: Living with the original Apple AirPods
The new headphones also come with either the standard charging case or an all-new, Qi-compatible Wireless Charging Case, with the latter able to be bought separately for original AirPods owners. Everything is available to order from Apple online now and in-store starting from next week.
No matter which case you opt for, Apple indicates you’ll still get 24 hours more of total listening time. However, it’s the new Wireless Charging Case, something you can simply throw on a charging mat instead of plugging in, that gives users a new element to play around with. An LED light indicator on the front of the case also shows of the charge status with just a look.
What about pricing? Well, you can get the new AirPods with the standard charging case for – the same price as the originals. However, if you want that new Wireless Charging Case paired with the earbuds, you’ll have to shell out . And for first-gen owners who want to upgrade to the new case, it can be bought separately for .
And if you really want to push the boat out, Apple will now also let you add an engraving to either charging case. We’ll have more on AirPods 2 when we put them through our review testing over the next few days, so stay tuned.
