Apple today announced new AirPods, the second generation of its wireless headphones, which are now powered by the new H1 chip and feature 50 percent more talk time, hands-free “Hey Siri” and the option of a wireless charging case.

Apple says that the new Apple-designed H1 chip, developed specifically for headphones, delivers performance efficiencies, faster connect times, more talk time and the convenience of hands-free "Hey Siri.” AirPods come with either a standard charging case or a new Wireless Charging Case for charging at home and on the go. The new AirPods and AirPods with Wireless Charging Case are available to order on apple.com and the Apple Store app starting today, and in Apple Stores beginning next week.

The new AirPods feature the convenience of "Hey Siri" making it easier to change songs, make a call, adjust the volume or get directions.
The Apple-designed H1 chip features custom audio architecture to create improved synchronization. Apple says that the H1 allows AirPods to deliver up to 50 percent more talk time compared to first generation AirPods. Switching between devices while listening to music on iPhone, Apple Watch or iPad is more seamless with two times faster connect times. For the first time, AirPods now feature the convenience of “Hey Siri” making it easier to change songs, make a call, adjust the volume or get directions simply by saying, “Hey Siri.”

The new AirPods come with either the standard charging case or the new Wireless Charging Case. Each case holds additional charges for more than 24 hours of total listening time. The Wireless Charging Case is designed to offer the freedom of wireless charging with Qi-compatible charging solutions. An LED light indicator located on the front of the case shows the charge status with a glance.

For some consumers, the new iPods may not be what they expected. For example, they lack any noise cancellation feature, the is no in-ear version, adjustable sizing or fitting capability, and most importantly, they do not seem to offer any improved sound quality comapred to the previous version.

AirPods with standard charging case will be available for $159 (US) and are available to order on apple.com and the Apple Store app starting today, and in Apple Stores starting next week.

AirPods with Wireless Charging Case will be available for $199 (US).

You can order the standalone Wireless Charging Case for $79 (US) on apple.com and the Apple Store app starting today, and in Apple Stores starting next week.