Apple Officially Unveils AirPods 5, Apple Watch Series 12, and the Ultra 4. And We Got Early Details.
Upgraded spatial audio earbuds and S11-driven smartwatches launch with pre-orders open today.
by Felson Sajonas · HypebeastWe’re on the ground at Apple Park bringing you real-time updates as the tech giant unveils its latest roster of devices. The announcements kick off with the next generation of personal audio in the AirPods 5, featuring upgraded acoustic architecture, spatial audio, and an expanded $149 USD variant that introduces open-ear Active Noise Cancellation alongside new swipe controls.
On the wearable side, Apple refreshes its wristwear with the Apple Watch Series 12 and rugged Apple Watch Ultra 4, both upgraded with the new S11 chip for on-device Audio Intelligence, enhanced health monitoring, and a premium Titanium Hermès strap option.
Rounding out the reveals, Apple introduced AppleCare One Family—a unified US protection plan for entire households—alongside fresh seasonal colorways across iPhone cases and device lanyards, with pre-orders opening today ahead of a September 18 release.
Check out some of the product details and highlights from the presentations below.
AirPods
AirPods 5 (Base Model – $129):
- Redesigned multi-port acoustic architecture and next-gen Adaptive EQ for richer, detailed sound across various ear geometries.
- Personalized Spatial Audio for dynamic, immersive sound.
- Retains the entry price of the previous non-ANC generation.
AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case ($149):
- Includes Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with 50% more noise reduction than AirPods 4 (delivering top-tier ANC in an open-ear design).
- Smart Audio Modes: Enhanced Transparency mode and Adaptive Audio that automatically adjusts between ANC and Transparency based on environment.
- Controls and Battery: First open-ear model with on-stem volume swipe controls (up/down); up to 5 hours of battery life with ANC enabled.
- Case: Wireless charging case supporting Apple Watch and Qi wireless chargers.
- Integration: Seamlessly integrates with Siri AI and Apple Intelligence.
- Availability: Pre-orders start today; officially available September 18.
Apple Watch
Apple Watch Series 12:
- Starts at $399.
- Powered by the S11 chip, bringing Audio Intelligence to the wrist.
- Features Ceramic Shield 2, new health-sensing features (most accurate heart rate sensing in a wearable), and up to 24-hour battery life.
Apple Watch Ultra 4:
- Starts at $799.
- Powered by the S11 chip; includes Audio Intelligence, advanced health and fitness sensing, faster charging, and extended workout battery life.
- Introduces a new Titanium Hermès band option.
- Availability: Both models available for pre-order today; officially available September 18.
Services and Accessories
AppleCare One Family:
- A unified protection plan introduced in the US, allowing easy direct-from-iPhone enrollment to cover all family devices with unlimited repair support.
- Accessories: New color options for iPhone cases, wrist lanyards, and AirPods Pro lanyard straps.