AirPods: Apple's True Wireless Earbuds Lineup Explained
Apple's true wireless earbuds are called AirPods (sometimes searched as "airbuds" by mistake) — not to be confused with generic third-party "wireless earbuds" from other brands. Apple has released several AirPods generations and a separate Pro line with active noise cancelling, which can make comparing them confusing.
AirPods Max 2#1AirPods Max 2
#2AirPods Pro 3
#3AirPods Max (USB-C)
#4AirPods 4 (ANC)
#5AirPods 4
#6AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)
#7AirPods Pro 2 (Lightning)
#8AirPods (3e génération)
#9AirPods Max
#10AirPods Pro (1re génération)
#11AirPods (2e génération)
#12AirPods (1re génération)
AirPods vs. AirPods Pro
Standard AirPods use an open-fit design with no ear tip seal and no active noise cancelling. AirPods Pro use silicone ear tips for a sealed fit, adding ANC and a Transparency mode.
Telling generations apart
Apple has released multiple numbered generations of both lines — check the model number or box rather than assuming "AirPods" refers to only one product, since specifications and price differ meaningfully between generations.
Compatibility beyond iPhone
AirPods pair over standard Bluetooth and work with Android phones for basic playback and calls, though Apple-specific features (like automatic switching between Apple devices) are iOS/macOS-only.