Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation: Features and Review
Apple’s introduction of the second-generation AirPods Pro has sparked excitement among tech enthusiasts and consumers alike. Boasting a range of improved features and technological advancements, the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) aim to elevate the true wireless earphone experience. Here’s a detailed review of their features and overall performance.
Enhanced Sound Quality and Active Noise Cancellation
The AirPods Pro 2nd generation introduces significant upgrades in sound quality. Equipped with a new low-distortion driver and custom amplifier, the earbuds deliver richer bass and crisper, clearer audio across a broader frequency range. The standout feature, however, remains its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Apple has improved the ANC by employing more advanced algorithms and higher density mesh that successfully blocks even more external noise, allowing users to immerse themselves fully in their audio experience.
Adaptive Transparency Mode
Adaptive Transparency mode is a new addition that builds on the original Transparency mode, which lets outside sound in so users can hear and interact with their environment. The adaptive version uses computational audio to reduce loud environmental noises, such as vehicle horns or construction noise, in real time, enhancing everyday usability without sacrificing situational awareness.
Personalized Spatial Audio
The AirPods Pro 2nd Gen takes spatial audio further with Personalized Spatial Audio. This feature tailors the sound to the anatomy of the user’s ears, providing a more immersive listening experience, especially when consuming movies and music that support Dolby Atmos. Users can set up this feature by scanning their ears with their iPhone, which then customizes the audio for more accuracy in sound delivery.
Improved Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is crucial for true wireless earbuds, and here, the AirPods Pro 2nd Gen makes notable strides. The earbuds offer up to 6 hours of listening time with ANC enabled, which is a 1.5-hour improvement over the first generation. With the charging case, you can expect up to 30 hours of total listening time. The case itself now supports Apple’s MagSafe and Qi wireless charging standards, and notably, it can also be charged via an Apple Watch charger.
New Case Features
The charging case has been redesigned and includes a built-in speaker to emit sounds for location tracking via Find My app, making it harder to lose. Additionally, the case now features a lanyard loop, empowering users to secure their case and prevent drops or losses.
Functionality and Controls
The earbuds maintain their force sensor that allows users to control music playback and calls easily. However, the 2nd generation introduces touch control on the stem for adjusting volume by swiping up or down, adding convenience.
Compatibility and Connectivity
The AirPods Pro 2nd Gen runs on Apple’s new H2 chip, enhancing audio processing and power efficiency. They are compatible with all devices that support Bluetooth, though certain features like Personalized Spatial Audio are exclusive to the Apple ecosystem, requiring an iPhone or iPad.
Price Point
Priced at $249, the AirPods Pro 2nd Gen are positioned as a premium product. While the cost is steep, the features and improvements could justify the investment for those deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem or for users prioritizing cutting-edge audio tech in compact form.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the second-generation AirPods Pro offers significant improvements in practically every aspect: audio quality, ANC, usability, and battery life. Its compatibility with various Apple-specific features also makes it a compelling choice for iPhone and iPad users. However, the high price may still be a barrier for some potential buyers. For Apple fans and audiophiles willing to invest in top-tier earbuds, the AirPods Pro 2nd Gen brings a compelling array of features that promise an unmatched listening experience in the wireless earbuds market.