Apple’s fresh AirPods 4 have made waves in the audio market with their debut, offering advanced features that appeal to a wide range of consumers. Launched on September 20, 2024, these wireless earbuds come in two versions: the standard model retailing for $129 and a high-end model featuring active noise cancellation (ANC) priced at $179.
Just a few months post-launch, CNET reviewer David Carnoy has praised both variations for their sound quality. According to him, in the new AirPods 4, "the sound is a little cleaner (improved treble), and you get a bit more bass, so there's a touch more depth and fullness." This makes them desirable options for users who appreciate high-fidelity audio without breaking the bank.
In a significant move, the AirPods 4 have integrated features previously limited to Apple’s premium AirPods Pro 2. The active noise cancellation and Transparency Mode now allow users to customize their listening experience, making it suitable for both isolation and awareness of surroundings. This integration reflects Apple’s strategy to make high-end audio features accessible to a broader audience.
With the festive shopping season approaching, major retailers are stepping up their promotional strategies to attract buyers. At Apple’s official store, customers can order either model and enjoy free engraving along with three months of free Apple Music — a solid value for prospective purchasers. In contrast, Best Buy offers similar pricing but adds exciting packages for new subscribers, such as three months of Apple Fitness Plus and additional Apple Music.
Amazon has also entered the fray, providing a slight discount on the high-end AirPods 4 model, which can be purchased with a $12 savings off the regular price. The retail giant is offering the standard model at a discounted price of $10, making it an attractive option for customers looking to save while upgrading their audio experience.
Walmart is getting competitive too, promoting an appealing four-month subscription to both Apple Arcade and Apple Music, alongside three months of free Apple TV Plus, Apple Fitness Plus, and Apple News Plus with every AirPods 4 purchase. Such offers are indicative of the fierce competition among retailers vying for holiday shoppers' attention.
B&H Photo Video is offering a modest $5 savings on the AirPods 4 possessing ANC, and they have an enticing sales tax rebate for customers utilizing their house-branded B&H Payboo Credit Card. In a unique twist, our viewers interested in trading in older devices can benefit from substantial savings; trade-ins can yield up to $130 for items like the AirPods Max, adding another dimension to these purchase offers.
The highly anticipated updated AirPods Max are also part of the recent product announcements. This new version features USB-C charging, an H2 chip, and exciting color options like midnight, blue, purple, orange, and starlight. Apple continues to innovate with its product lineup, staying ahead of competitive trends in the wireless audio space.
As the popularity of Apple’s latest earbuds continues to gain traction, many consumers seem eager to experience their enhanced features. According to Carnoy, the AirPods 4’s ANC is remarkable, marking them as the first open earbuds he’s tried with noise cancellation that effectively functions. This statement underscores the brand's commitment to innovation in listening experiences, setting new benchmarks in the wireless earbuds market.
Retailers are reaping the benefits, as more consumers are looking to purchase their own pair of AirPods 4. As users continue to traverse the landscape of wireless audio, they are met with compelling generational upgrades that promise better sound quality, dynamic features, and integrated capabilities across Apple's ecosystem of devices.
The ongoing competition between retailers is certain to drive down prices and improve promotional offers for AirPods 4 in the incoming months. This race for consumer loyalty assures that buyers will find value and options as they consider new purchases heading into the buying season, signaling a strong future for Apple in the evolving landscape of audio technology.