AirPods 5 rumours are accelerating ahead of Apple’s confirmed 9 September special event. Recent reports say Apple could introduce two versions of its next entry-level wireless earbuds: one with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and one without it. References reportedly found in macOS 26.7 code add weight to the possibility that new hardware is close.
Rumour notice: Apple has confirmed the event, but it has not announced AirPods 5 or published specifications, prices or release dates. The product details below come from credible reporting and software references and may change.
AirPods 5 rumours: what is actually confirmed?
Apple’s official Events page confirms a “Surprise and shine” presentation for 9 September at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. That is 3 a.m. AEST on Thursday, 10 September for Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. Apple says the event will stream on its website and in the Apple TV app.
That event information is confirmed. AirPods 5 are not. Apple has not listed the earbuds on its website or said that any particular product will appear during the presentation.
Two AirPods 5 models are expected
MacRumors, citing Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, reports that Apple is planning two AirPods 5 models. One is expected to include Active Noise Cancellation, while the less expensive version would omit ANC. This would continue the two-tier approach Apple uses for AirPods 4.
The structure makes sense for buyers. A standard version could suit people who mainly want convenient everyday listening and Apple-device integration. The ANC model would be more attractive for commuters, travellers and anyone who regularly listens in noisy places.
However, there is no verified information yet about Australian pricing. Buyers should wait for Apple’s local product pages rather than assuming the new models will retain current pricing.
Reported macOS code points to new earbuds
The same MacRumors report says references to unreleased AirPods 5 models were discovered in the macOS 26.7 Release Candidate. Software references can indicate that Apple is preparing compatibility for upcoming hardware, but they do not guarantee a launch date or reveal the final retail name.
This clue is more substantial than a vague supply-chain claim, yet it is still not an announcement. Apple can delay a product, change its name or adjust features before release.
What features could AirPods 5 include?
Active Noise Cancellation on the higher model
The clearest reported detail is the choice between ANC and non-ANC versions. Apple’s current AirPods comparison pages show how the company already separates models using noise-control features. If the report is accurate, shoppers should compare more than price: ANC, Transparency mode, Adaptive Audio support and case features can materially change daily use.
A possible new audio chip
9to5Mac notes separate reporting that Apple is developing an H3 audio chip intended to reduce latency and improve audio quality. It is not clear whether that chip will debut in AirPods 5. Apple previously introduced newer audio silicon in Pro earbuds first, so H3 support should be treated as a possibility rather than an expected specification.
Health features remain uncertain
Reports have also discussed longer-term plans for additional AirPods health capabilities, including temperature sensing. There is no reliable confirmation that these features are ready for AirPods 5. Heart-rate sensing is reportedly not expected to move from the Pro line to this entry-level generation.
Camera-equipped AirPods are reportedly coming later
One important distinction is that the expected AirPods 5 are reportedly not the camera-equipped earbuds seen in other leaks. According to the reporting summarised by 9to5Mac, that more ambitious model is not expected until 2027.
This matters because two separate rumours can easily become mixed together. AirPods 5 appear to be a conventional successor to AirPods 4, while camera-equipped earbuds may form a different future product. Our earlier camera-equipped AirPods rumour guide explains those reported visual-intelligence ambitions separately.
Should you wait before buying AirPods?
If you need earbuds immediately, AirPods 4 remain a current option and already come in versions with and without ANC. But if your existing earbuds still work, waiting until after 9 September is sensible. The event is only days away, and it should clarify whether AirPods 5 exist, what they improve and how much they cost in Australia.
Do not assume a newer generation automatically offers better value. Once specifications are official, compare:
- Australian price and included charging case
- ANC and Transparency mode support
- Battery life with noise control enabled
- Microphone and call-quality improvements
- Compatibility with your iPhone, iPad or Mac
- Whether discounted AirPods 4 meet your needs
For the wider launch schedule and other reported products, see our Apple Event September 2026 guide.
Final thoughts
The strongest AirPods 5 rumours point to two models, a likely September-event debut and a familiar choice between standard and ANC versions. The macOS code references make the reports more credible, but Apple has not confirmed the earbuds. Wait for official specifications, Australian pricing and independent testing before deciding whether to upgrade.
FAQs
When could AirPods 5 be announced?
Reports say AirPods 5 could appear at Apple’s 9 September 2026 event. Apple has confirmed the event, not the product.
Will AirPods 5 have Active Noise Cancellation?
One of two reported models is expected to include ANC, while the other may omit it. This remains unconfirmed.
Will AirPods 5 have cameras?
Current reporting says no. Camera-equipped AirPods are reportedly a separate product planned for 2027.
Should AirPods 4 owners upgrade?
Wait for Apple’s announcement. An upgrade will depend on confirmed audio, battery, comfort and case improvements rather than the generation number alone.
What time is the Apple event in Australia?
It begins at 3 a.m. AEST on Thursday, 10 September in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra.
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