When was the AirPods Pro 2 released?

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Apple’s AirPods became a staple of the Apple device ecosystem. The company released the original AirPods back in 2016, and the true-wireless earbuds were a hit ever since.

Apple released the AirPods Pro in 2019, and then it was time for the next version, the AirPods Pro 2.

Prior to their release, the company hadn’t announced anything regarding the next iteration of its Pro earbuds, but there was a lot of speculation.

Sources close to the company said the new AirPods Pro 2 would feature an updated stemless design and new sensors for fitness tracking. But when did we see the new earbuds?

When did the AirPods Pro 2 come out?

Short Answer: September, 2022.

The company announced the AirPods Pro 2 on September 7, 2022, and they were available for order online and in the Apple Store app starting Friday, September 9, with availability in stores from September 23, 2022.

The AirPods Pro 2 did ditch the stem altogether in favor of a new shape that resembled the Beats Fit Pro. The new earbuds did feature an upgraded chip for faster, better connections, as well.

Additionally, Apple amped up many of the features users loved about the original, and while they weren’t perfect, they offered some of the best noise cancellation and improved audio.

Of course, prior to their release, this was all speculation. But the rumors proved accurate, and the AirPods Pro 2 launched with the expected new design and features.

Are AirPods Pro 2 still worth buying?

Yes — AirPods Pro 2 are still one of the best all‑around wireless earbuds you can buy in 2025, especially if you’re in the Apple ecosystem.

Compared to the original AirPods Pro, the second‑gen model brings noticeably better active noise cancellation, improved sound quality, longer battery life, and a more powerful H2 chip for faster, more reliable connections.

You also get handy quality‑of‑life upgrades like a speaker and lanyard loop on the case, Precision Find My support, and a USB‑C charging case option that plays nicer with newer iPhones and Macs.

Versus standard AirPods (like AirPods 3), AirPods Pro 2 offer a much better seal with silicone ear tips, stronger ANC, and features like Adaptive Transparency that make them feel more premium in day‑to‑day use.

Against popular competitors like Beats Fit Pro, AirPods Pro 2 trade the sportier, wing‑tip fit for a more compact design, but generally win on noise cancellation, ecosystem integration, and extras like Personalized Spatial Audio.

With frequent discounts below Apple’s full retail price, AirPods Pro 2 remain an easy recommendation for iPhone users who want a mix of great sound, strong noise cancellation, and tight integration with their other Apple devices.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

4.5

$249.00 $199.00

The second-gen AirPods Pro 2 packs a punch with its superior sound, active noise-cancellation, and stylish design—perfect for tech-savvy audiophiles who want to elevate their audio experience.

What We Like:

• Excellent active noise cancellation for an immersive listening experience.
• Customizable silicone ear tips ensure a secure and comfortable fit
• Adaptive EQ adjusts audio based on your ear shape

Check Availability

12/19/2025 06:47 pm GMT

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Kevin Raposo

Kevin is KnowTechie's founder and executive editor. With over 15 years of blogging experience in the tech industry, Kevin has transformed what was once a passion project into a full-blown tech news publication. Shoot him an email at kevin@knowtechie.com.