Apple launches AirPods 5 with ANC, two models starting at $129

Apple introduced its next-generation AAPL AirPods 5 during a "Surprise and Shine" event, opening pre-orders on September 10 for two variants priced at $129 and $149. Both models now include active noise cancellation, a feature previously limited to the pricier AirPods 4 tier, and Apple says the new earbuds cut up to 50% more noise than AirPods 4 with ANC.

The $129 base version offers standard Bluetooth connectivity and Apple's usual playback controls, while the $149 Wireless Charging Case variant adds swipe volume controls on the stem and, as the name implies, wireless charging. Both tiers carry the noise cancellation upgrade; the $20 premium buys the charging case and stem control, not ANC itself. Additional upgrades include a next-generation Adaptive EQ and enhanced Spatial Audio, positioning the AirPods 5 as a more feature-rich yet still affordable alternative to the flagship AirPods Pro 3.

The launch narrows the gap with Apple's flagship line. The AirPods Pro 3 is currently discounted to $199 from its $249 list price, meaning it now costs only about $50 more than the top AirPods 5 model. That pricing overlap could pull some price-sensitive buyers toward the newer earbuds while still leaving a clear upgrade path for shoppers who want the Pro 3's tighter seal, longer battery life and heart-rate sensing.

AAPL shares traded around $322 on September 10, up about 2.1% on the day, with Wall Street's consensus average price target near $323.86 and a Buy-leaning rating split. It is not clear the move reflects the AirPods 5 launch specifically, since Apple stock trades on many inputs at once, but the timing coincides with a broader Slightly Bullish sentiment read on the stock. Market watchers will be looking at early pre-order demand and whether the cheaper ANC option and swipe controls pull volume away from the AirPods Pro 3 as Apple moves into its next hardware cycles.