To a publication, Apple executives explained the magic behind AirPods 4 ANC feature that works without ear tips.

For the first time ever, the entry-level AirPods have active noise cancellation (ANC). Apple unveiled the new AirPods 4 on Sept. 9 at the "Glowtime" event where the Cupertino-based tech giant debuted the new line with two variants: one with ANC and one without ANC.

The work that began with EarPods continues to pay off as Apple prepares to ship the noise-canceling AirPods 4.

Apple’s AirPods have long been a staple in the wireless earbud market, appealing to a broad audience with their comfort,simplicity, and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem.

The AirPods 4 with ANC and the regular AirPods 4 introduce the H2 chip, Apple’s new processor that enables features like Adaptive Audio, Transparency Mode, and Conversation Awareness. The chip also helps the regular AirPods 4 with voice isolation and Personal Spatial Audio, which are a part of the package with the AirPods 4 with ANC.

Apple's new $179 / £179 / AU$299 AirPods 4 brought ANC to Apple's more affordable true wireless earbuds (or you could have the $129 / £129 non-ANC set). But Audio-Technica just unveiled an even more affordable noise-nixing rival: the new ATH-CKS30TW+ true wireless earbuds are just $99 / £89 / AU$199.

The new AirPods 4 come in two models with different features, which may draw some users away from AirPods Pro 2. Here's how they compare.

VERDICT VERDICT The AirPods 4 are a huge leap forward to already excellent earphones. And with the addition of ANC and other features it will make them even more attractive for customers looking for great audio and a seamless experience when connected to their iPhone.

In a recent interview with Engadget, Apple's vice president of hardware engineering Kate Bergeron and AirPods marketing director Eric