# AirPods 4

> wireless earbuds model

**Wikidata**: [Q130345437](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q130345437)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/airpods-4

## Summary
AirPods 4 are wireless earbuds designed and sold by Apple Inc., introduced as part of the AirPods series on September 7, 2016. They are a subclass of Apple earbuds and smart devices, featuring Bluetooth connectivity and the Apple W1 chip for audio processing.

## Key Facts
- **Product Type:** Wireless earbuds model (subclass of Apple earbuds, wireless earbuds, and smart device).
- **Developer:** Apple Inc., an American multinational technology company based in Cupertino, California.
- **Inception Date:** September 7, 2016.
- **Core Technology:** Bluetooth connectivity with the Apple W1 system on a chip (SoC).
- **Hardware Components:** Speaker driver, lithium-ion battery, and battery charger.
- **Variations:** Part of the AirPods line, including AirPods 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Pro (launched October 28, 2019).
- **Wearing Style:** Worn on the auricle (outer ear).
- **FCC ID:** A1523.
- **Firmware History:** Updated versions include 3.5.1 (released February 1, 2017) and 3.7.2 (released May 24, 2017).
- **Official Resources:** User manual at `support.apple.com/guide/airpods` and Apple Discussions forum.

## FAQs
### Q: When were AirPods first released?
A: AirPods were officially introduced on September 7, 2016, as a wireless alternative to traditional earbuds by Apple Inc.

### Q: What specific hardware do AirPods use to connect?
A: AirPods use Bluetooth protocol and the Apple W1 system on a chip (SoC) to manage wireless connectivity and audio processing.

### Q: What are the different models of AirPods mentioned?
A: The AirPods line includes AirPods 3, AirPods 4, and AirPods Pro, with the Pro model launched on October 28, 2019.

## Why It Matters
AirPods represent a pivotal product category for Apple Inc., solidifying the company's dominance in consumer electronics and wearables. As a subclass of smart devices, they introduced integrated computing power via the Apple W1 chip, streamlining Bluetooth pairing and power management. The product line evolved rapidly, expanding from standard models to advanced iterations like AirPods Pro, contributing to the broader industry trend of true wireless audio devices.

## Notable For
- **W1 Chip Integration:** Among the first devices to utilize the Apple W1 system on a chip, enhancing energy efficiency and connectivity.
- **Product Ecosystem:** Serves as a cornerstone of Apple's audio hardware, part of the Apple earbuds line since 2001.
- **Rapid Iteration:** The brand quickly expanded from standard models to the "Pro" tier by 2019.
- **Online Presence:** Commands a significant social following, with the official subreddit `r/airpods` amassing over 622,000 followers by 2023.

## Body

### Development and Classification
AirPods are classified as an "earbuds model series" and a "smart device." They were created and developed by **Apple Inc.**, headquartered in Cupertino, California. The official inception date for the AirPods brand is **September 7, 2016**.

### Technical Specifications
The device is designed to be worn on the auricle. It operates using **Bluetooth** technology. Internally, the AirPods contain several distinct components:
- **Processor:** The **Apple W1** system on a chip (SoC), also used in select Beats headphones.
- **Power:** A built-in **lithium-ion battery** and a dedicated **battery charger** component.
- **Audio:** A speaker driver.

### Product Line Evolution
Since their launch, the AirPods have evolved into a distinct product family with multiple classes:
- **AirPods Pro:** A higher-end model class introduced on **October 28, 2019**.
- **AirPods 3 and AirPods 4:** Subsequent generational models of the standard AirPods class.

### Software and Support
The firmware for AirPods is updated periodically. Notable recorded firmware versions include **3.5.1** (released February 1, 2017) and **3.7.2** (released May 24, 2017). The product has an assigned FCC product code of **A1523**. Official support is provided through the Apple Support guide and the Apple Discussions community forum.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2/)