Apple Apple AirPods Pro

Earbuds · 3 models with guides

Apple introduced the AirPods Pro line to bridge the gap between basic true wireless earbuds and active noise canceling headphones. Debuting with the 1st Generation model in late 2019, the series moved away from the open fit design of standard AirPods, adding silicone ear tips, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and Transparency mode driven by the H1 chip. Designed primarily for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users who require compact, daily carry audio with hands free Siri and seamless device switching, the Pro lineup quickly became a benchmark for mainstream wireless earbud performance. The series underwent its first major refresh with the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) in 2022, introducing the H2 processor. This update delivered up to double the noise cancellation depth, touch swipe volume controls, improved dynamic range, and Adaptive Audio features. Apple further revised the 2nd Generation in 2023 by swapping the Lightning charging case for a USB C port, boosting dust resistance to IP54, and adding specialized low latency lossless audio support. The charging cases also evolved alongside the earbuds, adding MagSafe compatibility, a lanyard loop, an internal speaker for Find My alerts, and a U1 chip for precision location tracking. From a hardware and ownership perspective, the AirPods Pro series presents unique service considerations. Because the earbuds are sealed with heavy adhesives, traditional battery replacements are effectively impossible without destroying the delicate housing. Over two to three years of regular charging cycles, the micro lithium ion coin cells inside the st…