Apple’s AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) are back at their Black Friday price of $99. For many, this just looks like another tech deal. But savvy shoppers—and audio enthusiasts—should pay close attention. This is more than a flash sale. It’s a strategic moment in Apple’s ongoing battle for earbud dominance, and it has ripple effects throughout the audio industry.
Why This Matters
- Apple is rarely aggressive on price. A 45% discount on a current-generation product signals either strategic inventory clearing or a move to preempt rivals like Samsung, Sony, and Bose, who have been eroding Apple’s market share with their own compelling ANC earbuds.
- Democratizing premium features: ANC used to be a high-end, $200+ feature. Now, you can get it for under $100. That’s a seismic shift for consumers who want quality without breaking the bank.
- Apple’s ecosystem gets stickier: With features like Conversation Awareness, Adaptive Audio, Transparency mode, MagSafe/Qi wireless charging, and Find My integration, Apple’s earbuds become a no-brainer for iPhone users. They’re not just headphones—they’re an extension of your Apple lifestyle.
What Most People Miss
- The Live Translation feature, recently announced, is an under-the-radar tool that could be a game-changer for travelers and global professionals. Imagine real-time language translation in your ear—suddenly, AirPods become more than just audio devices.
- Variants matter: This $99 deal is for the ANC-enabled version, not the standard AirPods 4. The difference? Features that rival the AirPods Pro lineup, minus the in-ear tip design.
- Insurance for the clumsy: The optional AppleCare+ bundle at $118 (43% off) is significant. AppleCare+ for headphones is often overlooked, but with repair/replacement costs rising, this peace of mind is worth considering—especially if you’ve ever dropped an AirPod down a subway grate.
Key Takeaways
- Sharp pricing: $99 for AirPods 4 with ANC is among the best deals in wireless earbuds right now.
- Feature-rich for the price: ANC, Adaptive Audio, Transparency mode, wireless charging, and Find My compatibility set these apart from other sub-$100 earbuds.
- Pro 2 vs. AirPods 4 with ANC: The AirPods Pro 2 still edge out in noise cancellation and fit for audiophiles. But for people who dislike silicone tips or want open-ear comfort, AirPods 4 with ANC strike a sweet spot.
Industry Context & Comparisons
- According to Canalys, Apple holds over 25% of the global true wireless stereo (TWS) market. Discounts like this help fend off aggressive pricing from Chinese competitors such as Anker’s Soundcore and Xiaomi’s Redmi Buds.
- Samsung’s Galaxy Buds FE (also around $99) offer competition, but lack the deep iOS integration and translation features.
- With premium features trickling down, expect other brands to follow suit—or risk losing the lucrative mid-tier segment.
Timeline: AirPods Evolution
- 2016: AirPods (1st Gen) launch, revolutionizing wireless earbuds.
- 2019: AirPods Pro with ANC arrive, setting a new standard.
- 2024: AirPods 4 with ANC debut, bringing Pro-level features to a mainstream price point.
- 2024: Apple rolls out Live Translation, pushing earbuds into the smart assistant era.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Affordable ANC, Apple ecosystem integration, Live Translation, easy device switching, wireless charging, Find My support.
- Cons: Not as premium in noise cancellation as Pro 2, open-ear design may not suit everyone, best value is for iPhone users.
Action Steps
- iPhone users: Snag this deal if you want better sound and features without spending Pro money.
- Android users: Consider compatibility before jumping in—most features are Apple-only.
- Value hunters: Watch for similar price drops from competitors as the market heats up.
The Bottom Line
If you want flagship-level features for less than $100, now’s your chance. The AirPods 4 with ANC aren’t just another pair of wireless earbuds—they represent a shift in what consumers can expect for their money. With Live Translation on the horizon and AppleCare+ available at a rare discount, you’re getting future-facing tech and peace of mind, all wrapped in Apple’s iconic white.