If you’ve been holding off on upgrading your earbuds because Apple’s prices always felt out of reach, November 26, 2025 changed everything. That’s when Apple announced their AirPods 4 would start at just $69 for Black Friday, slashing hundreds off the typical cost and suddenly putting premium audio within budget for everyday users.
Here’s what you need to know:
- AirPods 4 are available for $69 (down from $129) during Black Friday
- The sale covers 10 countries including the US, UK, and Japan
- ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) models are part of the lineup
- This is the lowest price ever for Apple’s latest earbuds
The Unbeatable Price Point
When Apple products typically command premium prices, seeing the AirPods 4 drop to $69 feels almost unreal. According to MacRumors community discussions, this represents a 47% discount from the original $129 price point. For context, that’s less than many generic wireless earbuds while giving you access to Apple’s ecosystem and quality.
What makes this particularly significant is timing. Black Friday 2025 falls during a period when many consumers are watching their spending, and Apple’s move to offer such aggressive pricing signals a strategic shift toward capturing budget-conscious markets. The sale isn’t limited either—it’s running across 10 countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Japan.
What You’re Actually Getting
So what does $69 actually buy you in the AirPods 4 lineup? You’re getting Apple’s latest standard model with improved battery life and the H2 chip for faster connectivity. However, the more premium ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) model remains at $179, creating a clear tier system that lets you choose between essential features and advanced noise cancellation.
As reported by Tom’s Guide, the base model at $69 still includes critical Apple features like seamless device switching, “Hey Siri” support, and sweat resistance. The technical details mention ANC models incorporating AI enhancements, likely referring to the Claude and Gemini integrations for smarter audio adaptation.
Where This Fits in Your Life
If you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem with an iPhone or Mac, these AirPods at $69 eliminate the last barrier to full compatibility. The convenience of automatic pairing and Find My integration becomes accessible without the usual premium tax. But here’s the catch: you’ll need to move quickly, as inventory at this price won’t last.
Why This Sale Changes Everything
Apple has traditionally positioned itself as a premium brand, but this $69 Black Friday pricing strategy reveals something new. They’re acknowledging that budget-conscious consumers represent a massive untapped market, especially in regions where Apple products are often seen as luxury items.
The availability across 10 countries means Apple is testing wider accessibility. However, there’s a legitimate concern about whether this pricing is sustainable or simply a limited-time play to clear inventory. Some users might wonder if future models will maintain this affordability or if this is a one-time strategic move.
The Ripple Effect on the Market
When Apple moves, the entire tech industry pays attention. This $69 pricing will likely force competitors like Samsung and Google to reassess their own Black Friday strategies. We could see a wave of similar discounts across the wireless earbud market, ultimately benefiting consumers who’ve been waiting for premium audio to become more affordable.
What’s particularly interesting is how this aligns with Amazon’s involvement in the sale. As one of the primary retailers, Amazon’s distribution power combined with Apple’s brand appeal creates a perfect storm for value-seeking shoppers.
The bottom line:
Apple’s AirPods 4 at $69 represents a watershed moment for budget-conscious tech enthusiasts. You’re getting legitimate Apple quality at near-entry-level prices, making this the most accessible entry point into the ecosystem we’ve ever seen. While the standard model lacks premium features like ANC, the core experience remains uncompromised. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to join the AirPods family or upgrade from older models, this Black Friday sale is that opportunity—just don’t wait too long, because prices this good rarely last.
If you’re interested in related developments, explore our articles on Why Apple’s $85 AirPods 4 Are a Game-Changer for Budget Buyers and Why Threads Just Became a Game-Changer for Independent Podcasters.
