AirPods Pro 2 Announced - What's New? Is the 1st & 2nd Generation Case Universal?

It's here: the long-rumored second-generation AirPods Pro have been unveiled. The "Far Out" iPhone 14 event featured Apple's latest noise-canceling true wireless headphones. Pre-orders open on Friday September 9th 2022, and shipments will begin on Sept. 23rd 2022 for $249.

HERE THEY ARE 🤯 JOKING...

Rumored design. Ultimately, not accurate (Image provided by appleinsider.com)

This generation is a follow-up to the original AirPods Pro noise-canceling model that debuted in October 2019. The processor is fueled by Apple's new H2 chip, which is designed to increase processing power without sacrificing efficiency (according to Apple). In combination with new low-distortion drivers, the H2 chip provides improved sound with better clarity, depth and noise cancellation.

Official Design of AirPods Pro 2nd Generation (Image provided by apple.com)

 So the question is on everyone's mind, you just bought AirPods Pro first generation and wondering if you can use your accessories for the new generation. Specifications of the pods and case are completely identical in structure. The only difference, is the second generation case has a few new hardward features.

Technical specifications of AirPods Pro 2nd Generation (Image provided by apple.com)

Can you replace the first generation pods with the second generation case? According to the specifications, they should fit in the case. However, knowing Apple and their strict technology ecosystem the AirPods might have trouble syncing. We will keep you updated on this feature.

Technical specifications of AirPods Pro 1st Generation (Image provided by apple.com, using web.archive.org/)

Strangely, Apple didn't specify whether or not the original AirPods Pro ear tips will fit the new generation, from their site we can see Apple now offers first and second generation replacement ear tips. Upon further inspection both of these images are exactly the same. We're not sure what has changed, so we will keep the community updated when we receive the pre-order.

AirPods Pro 1st & 2nd Generation Replacement Ear Tips (Image provided by apple.com)

UPDATE (09/22/2022)

Apple states in a support document yesterday, the original AirPods Pro ear tips have "noticeably denser mesh" than those of the second generation. However, Apple didn't provide any additional details about the mesh density, which may have an impact on acoustics.

While the AirPods Pro second generation are equipped with ear tips that are designed specifically to deliver the best audio quality possible; can this be transfered over to the first generation?

You must pruchase the second generation AirPods Pro to get the best audio, or buy the ear tips separately for $7.99 in the United States.

In summary to the compatability, the second and first generation ear tips are universal. Luckly, we have the best metal mesh available for memory foam tips. Take a glance at the AirTips Pro V2. Alternatively you can order Apple silicone tips from their site.

New Features:

• Adaptive Transparency
• Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
• Skin-detect sensor
• Force sensor
• Apple H2 headphone chip
• Apple U1 chip in MagSafe Charging Case
• Find My Support - AirPods & Case (Speaker included)
• Landyard Loop
• Swipe up or down to adjust volume
• Sweat and water resistant (IPX4): AirPods Pro and charging case
• AirPods Pro Case Weight: 1.79 ounces (50.8 grams)
• AirPods Pro Case works with Apple Watch charger
• Up to 6 hours (AirPods Pro 1st Gen. 4.5 hours) of listening time with a single charge (up to 5.5 hours with Spatial Audio and Head Tracking enabled)
• Up to 4.5 (AirPods Pro 1st Gen. 3.5 hours) hours of talk time with a single charge
• Bluetooth 5.3 wireless technology
• Silicone ear tips (four sizes: XS, S, M, L)

After three years and millions of AirPod Pro users struggling to find the perfect fit, Apple announced their extra small ear tips. Here at Fultro, we specialize in audio accessories and know firsthand the struggle to find the right fit. Kudos to Apple for making an effort.

AirPods Pro 2nd Generation Ear Tips (Image provided by apple.com)

 Here's a closer look at the new AirPods Pro second generation case with the lanyard loop on the right and the speaker grill at the bottom.

AirPods Pro 2nd Generation Case (Image provided by apple.com)

This is an amazing release for Apple, AirPods Pro 2nd generation are certainly a strong buy in our book. While it is unclear if you can use first generation accessories for the new AirPod Pros, the features alone make this a worthwhile purchase.

You can pre-order your pair from Apple directly here.

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