(Image credit: Apple)

Apple just announced the AirPods 5 alongside a bunch of other products at the "Surprise and Shine" event in Cupertino, California.Packed with new features, the AirPods 5 definitely look like a worthwhile alternative to the latest AirPods Pro 3.They have the open fit the previous models were known for, which is great for people who don't like the Pro's tips. Apple says they'll have the best ANC for this type of earbud, which is a big deal.Apple Watch 5 quick infoPrice: $129 for the base model with ANC. $149 for the higher-end model with a wireless charging case and volume on the stem.Availability: Announced at the "Surprise and Shine" event; available for pre-order todayFeatures: Live translation, full support for Siri AI, 50% more noise reduction than the previous generation,Under-the-hood: H3 Wireless ChipBattery life: Up to 4 hours of listening time with ANC on, up to 20 hours with the charging caseWhat makes the AirPods 5 stand out?

(Image credit: Apple)Apple announced some exciting new features for the AirPods 5, but perhaps the most exciting element is the lower price. The base model, now with active noise cancellation, costs only $129. That's the same price as the AirPods 4 without ANC.At the same time, Apple announced an upgraded version, the AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, for $149. That's cheaper than the high-end AirPods 4. In today's economy, prices don't drop often, so this is exciting.As the name implies, it offers wireless charging, but it also has a force sensor with volume swipe, which the company says is a first for the open-ear form factor.