Apple is reportedly gearing up to unveil two versions of the new AirPods 5 as early as next month, coinciding with its expected product event. According to a recent report, this update will include standard and active noise cancellation (ANC) variants. The AirPods 5 would be Apple’s next-generation entry-level earbuds, with the last major refresh arriving in 2024. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/24/apple-could-debut-two-airpods-5-models-next-month-per-report/))
What to Expect
The upcoming Apple event is believed to be scheduled for September 9, during which the company may also introduce a foldable iPhone, a fresh Apple Watch lineup, and the iPhone 18 Pro series. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/24/apple-could-debut-two-airpods-5-models-next-month-per-report/)) The AirPods 5 are set to be part of this lineup, with both regular and noise-cancelling models in the works. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/24/apple-could-debut-two-airpods-5-models-next-month-per-report/))
While Apple is developing earbuds equipped with cameras and AI-enhanced features like Visual Intelligence and Siri, those models are not expected until 2027. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/24/apple-could-debut-two-airpods-5-models-next-month-per-report/)) A hint of these camera-capable AirPods appeared in the macOS 26.7 release candidate—though the clip was vague and didn’t clearly show physical differences. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/24/apple-could-debut-two-airpods-5-models-next-month-per-report/))
Why It Matters
The AirPods line represents Apple’s leading approach to wireless audio, catering to users who value sleek design, integration, and sound performance. The ANC variant of the AirPods 5 would directly compete with offerings like the AirPods Pro, likely offering a lower-cost alternative for users seeking noise isolation without the premium tag. Releasing updated entry-level models in 2024 and now again in 2026 suggests Apple is accelerating its refresh cycle for its audio products. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/24/apple-could-debut-two-airpods-5-models-next-month-per-report/))
Adding camera-equipped wireless earbuds pushes Apple further into integrating Vision Pro–style AI and visual technologies across its hardware ecosystem. The delay of those models into 2027 indicates Apple wants more maturity in the technology—both in hardware sensors and software features—before going to market. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/24/apple-could-debut-two-airpods-5-models-next-month-per-report/))
This reported launch of AirPods 5 carries implications for accessory makers, audio-focused app developers, and Apple’s wearable strategy as a whole. If Apple does include ANC in its entry-level AirPods, it could reshape the tier structure between its earbuds offerings. Observing how Apple balances features, price, and performance will reveal whether the AirPods 5 can slot effectively without cannibalizing higher-end models.
