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Apple refreshed the AirPods Pro in late 2022 with a new H2 chip, improved ANC, and a new Adaptive Transparency mode — then quietly made them even better via free software updates adding Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness. Are they still the earbuds to beat heading into 2025? We put them through their paces.
In-Depth Look
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
The AirPods Pro 2 remain the gold standard for noise-cancelling earbuds, combining the best-in-class ANC performance with an Adaptive Audio mode that automatically blends noise cancellation and transparency based on your environment — quieting a crowded subway while still letting your name cut through. The MagSafe case charges wirelessly on any Qi pad, via Apple Watch charger, or over USB-C, and doubles as an audio source with Find My precision tracking.
✅ Pros
- Best-in-class ANC for iPhone users
- Adaptive Transparency mode is genuinely magical
- MagSafe + Apple Watch charger compatibility
- Free software updates keep adding features
- Extremely low audio latency
❌ Cons
- Locked into Apple ecosystem — loses 40% of features on Android
- No USB-C wired audio support
- Smaller battery than Sony rivals
- Premium price vs. Anker/Jabra alternatives
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
Two years after launch, still the benchmark for iPhone users. The Adaptive Audio free software update turned them into something close to mind-reading earbuds. Nothing else comes close for the iOS ecosystem.
🛒 Check Price on AmazonWhat to Consider Before Buying
The AirPods Pro 2 are only worth buying if you own an iPhone — the seamless device switching, Spatial Audio head tracking, and Adaptive Audio all require iOS 16 or later to function properly.
Buy the USB-C version (released late 2023) over the older Lightning version if you can find it — it charges faster and the case is compatible with Apple Watch chargers, which is genuinely convenient.
Apple’s ear-tip fit test (in Settings > Bluetooth) is worth running before your first workout — a poor seal costs you 20-30% of the ANC effectiveness.
Compared to Sony WF-1000XM5: the AirPods Pro 2 win on latency, transparency mode, and iPhone integration; the Sony units win on bass quality and work equally well across iPhone and Android.
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Verdict
Two years on from launch and no competitor has decisively beaten the AirPods Pro 2 for iPhone users — the combination of Apple ecosystem integration, best-in-class ANC, and free software updates that keep adding features is a genuinely hard package to match. If you own an iPhone and want the best earbuds money can buy at a reasonable price, stop looking.