Apple Unveils AirPods 5 and Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4
Apple has announced the AirPods 5 with optional noise cancellation and the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, all powered by a new S11 chip.
Apple has officially introduced its latest generation of personal audio and smartwatch accessories. The AirPods 5 and new Apple Watch models, the Series 12 and Ultra 4, are available for pre-order today for release on September 18.
Both wearable lines are centered on the new S11 silicon. This chip brings what Apple calls "Audio Intelligence" directly to the wrist for the watches. The company also revealed a new unified protection plan and seasonal accessory colors.
AirPods 5: Open-Ear ANC Debuts
The base model AirPods 5 will retail for $129. Apple states it features a redesigned multi-port acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ for more detailed sound. It also includes Personalized Spatial Audio. This model retains the entry price of its predecessor.
A $149 variant includes a wireless charging case and introduces Active Noise Cancellation to the open-ear form factor. Apple claims this ANC offers 50% more noise reduction than the previous AirPods 4 generation. This model includes smart audio modes that automatically switch between noise cancellation and transparency based on your surroundings. It is the first open-ear model from Apple to feature on-stem swipe controls for volume. Battery life is listed at up to five hours with ANC active, and the case supports Apple Watch and Qi wireless chargers.
| Model | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods 5 (Base) | $129 | Redesigned acoustic architecture, Adaptive EQ, Personalized Spatial Audio |
| AirPods 5 with Wireless Case | $149 | Open-ear Active Noise Cancellation, swipe controls, 5-hour ANC battery |
Apple Watch Refresh: S11 Chip Powers New Models
The Apple Watch Series 12 starts at $399. It is powered by the S11 chip and features Ceramic Shield 2. Apple claims it has the most accurate heart rate sensing in a wearable, with battery life lasting up to 24 hours.
The rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4 starts at $799. It also uses the S11 chip, enabling Audio Intelligence and advanced health sensing. It promises faster charging and extended battery life for workouts. A new Titanium Hermès band option is being introduced for this model.
| Model | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch Series 12 | $399 | S11 chip, Ceramic Shield 2, 24-hour battery |
| Apple Watch Ultra 4 | $799 | S11 chip, Titanium Hermès band option, advanced fitness sensing |
New Services and Seasonal Colors
Alongside the hardware, Apple introduced AppleCare One Family. This is a new, unified protection plan for the US market. It is designed to cover all of a household's Apple devices with a single plan offering unlimited repair support. Enrollment can be done directly from an iPhone.
The company also showed off new accessory color options. These include fresh seasonal hues for iPhone cases and new wrist lanyards. A dedicated lanyard strap for the AirPods Pro was also part of the reveal. All newly announced devices are scheduled to become available on September 18.
