Apple AirPods 5 TWS Earbuds Get Smarter, but We Won’t Notice

Visually, the AirPods 5 are almost indistinguishable from the previous model: Apple has retained the case, acoustic system, and processor. The stem of the premium version now features a touch panel, which can be used to control playback, noise cancellation, and volume. The earbuds also recognize nods and head shakes to answer or decline calls.

AirPods connect quickly to Apple devices, and settings are accessible in the system menu of iPhone, iPad, or MacBook. Some features only work when using iOS 27: users can select transparent, adaptive, or standard modes, as well as enable automatic volume reduction during conversations.

Support for Siri AI and Live Translation depends on Apple Intelligence and the region. Outside the U.S., intelligent capabilities are limited. With Android, the earbuds connect via the standard Bluetooth menu but lack advanced settings and an equalizer.