The $129 AirPods 4 are a must-have new option, but the AirPods lineup is too confusing right now

When Apple launched its iPhone 16, the base 4th-generation AirPods received some much-needed updates, bringing over features from the Pro line, like active noise cancellation. They might just be the best wireless earbuds for iPhone users. But the focus is on the new starting price: $129.

The $129 AirPods 4 offer all the new features except active noise cancellation. That includes the more comfortable design, new Find My features, and wireless charging. However, ANC is reserved for a slightly more expensive version of the AirPods 4, priced at $179.

I’m very happy to see this, and it makes sense. $179 is still a bit steep for the cheapest AirPods in a world where decent wireless earbuds can be had for around $50. While $129 is still more expensive, it makes the AirPods much more accessible for those who don’t care about the latest and greatest features.

But (and this is a big but), the AirPods lineup is now way too confusing. The AirPods 4 share the same name, but one has ANC and costs $179, while the other has no noise cancellation and costs $129. The AirPods Pro 2 now come in three configurations: Lightning case, MagSafe and USB-C case, and USB-C case with the new hearing features. And then there are the top-of-the-line AirPods Max. Try explaining all that to your grandmother or in less than 20 words.

Apple is using the same name for too many devices at once. The $129 AirPods 4 should be AirPods SE, while the $179 AirPods 4 should keep their 4th-gen name. As for the Pros, Apple should already be slapping a 3 on them, since a third minor upgrade is dragging on a bit. As for the AirPods Max keeping their name, I’ll allow it since the only changes are USB-C and the colors — but next time, they’ll have to add a number to it.

Everything Apple Released at Its September Event

The iPhone 16 launch event was marked by a lot of announcements from Apple. The new iPhones feature a new camera control, which makes it easier to take photos and videos. The displays across the range are better than ever and more durable. Apple is showing a penchant for new colors this year, with plenty of options to choose from.

The Apple Watch Series 10 was a big upgrade, with a bigger screen than ever before. The body is thinner than ever, things are faster inside, and the antennas are moved to the back of the case. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 got a new color option, and a third-generation Apple Watch SE never came to fruition.

The AirPods have also seen some big changes. In addition to these new AirPods 4, the AirPods Max are getting a minor refresh with USB-C and new colors, while the AirPods Pro 2 have received a third iteration with the addition of new hearing technology.

We’re covering all the Apple iPhone 16 event announcements live as they happen. Don’t miss all our iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, Apple Watch X, Apple Watch Ultra 3, iOS 18 And watchOS 11 Coverage so far.