The AirPods Pro 2 have become one of my favorite Apple devices since their release. They’ve also initiated a significant shift in Apple’s product strategy that may be difficult to reverse. Here’s the reason behind that.
Improvements of AirPods Pro 2 Since Their Launch
Reflecting on the release of AirPods Pro 2 back in 2022 brings a smile to my face, especially recalling how I initially intended to forgo their purchase.
Even though I was content with my first-generation AirPods Pro, the significant upgrades in version 2—particularly the enhanced noise cancellation—quickly changed my mind.
Since their introduction, Apple has continuously enhanced AirPods Pro 2. With numerous feature upgrades via firmware updates, they almost resemble what the AirPods Pro 3 should be.
Since their debut, Apple has rolled out the following new features and enhancements for the AirPods Pro 2:
- Adaptive Audio: Combines the advantages of noise cancellation and transparency into a single mode
- Conversation Awareness: Facilitates effortless real-world conversations without removing an AirPod
- Automatic Switching: Enhanced functionality that finally works smoothly (for me)
- Voice Isolation: Enhances phone call quality in noisy environments
- Siri Interactions: Now allows for non-verbal head nodding and shaking to answer Siri
- Personalized Spatial Audio: Apple claims improvements in iOS 18
- Hearing Protection: A proactive new feature aimed at preventing hearing loss
- Hearing Test: A convenient way to check your hearing at home
- Hearing Aid: A potentially revolutionary health feature.
These new and upgraded features complement the enhancements Apple introduced with the original AirPods Pro 2.
This compelling list highlights a clear expectation.
Users will anticipate years of major feature enhancements across all AirPods products going forward.
AirPods Pro 2 Establish a New Expectation for Updates
Not too long ago, purchasing headphones or earbuds came with a predetermined set of features.
Even in the early days of AirPods, despite some firmware updates, the core functions didn’t see significant changes.
However, the AirPods Pro 2 have redefined the standard. They represent a shift for AirPods products from which Apple cannot revert.
I anticipate that when AirPods Pro 3 is released later this year, its initial features will evolve each year in substantial ways—just as I’ve witnessed with my AirPods Pro 2.
Anything less than exciting new features annually may be a letdown.
The remarkable advancements in AirPods Pro 2 also explain why the ‘new’ AirPods Max released last fall were disappointing. The original AirPods Max did not receive regular feature updates like AirPods Pro 2. The minimal addition of USB-C support for the new AirPods Max leaves them facing a similar fate.
It’s as if Apple has unwittingly created an expectation by continuing to enhance the AirPods Pro 2 consistently. Users are now looking for the same from all AirPods offerings.
AirPods Viewed as Standalone Devices, Not Just Accessories
It’s commonplace for Apple’s other products—like the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Vision Pro, Apple Watch, and Apple TV 4K—to receive new features through annual updates. The HomePod also occasionally benefits from this.
However, for years, both headphones and AirPods were viewed as mere accessories without the same level of regular feature enhancement.
That perception has changed. Now, AirPods Pro 2 have established themselves as genuine devices that merit the same ongoing improvements as Apple’s other products. This is an exhilarating new trajectory that I hope Apple intends to maintain.
You can currently find AirPods Pro 2 on Amazon for $169, reduced from the standard price of $249.
Top Accessories for AirPods Pro
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
