Audio · Retina & Beyond · 2019

AirPods (2nd generation)

Second-generation AirPods kept the iconic shape but made pairing and Siri faster with the H1 chip.

AirPods (2nd generation) (2019), Audio by Apple

AirPods (2nd generation): key facts

When was the AirPods (2nd generation) released?

The AirPods (2nd generation) was released in March 2019. Apple discontinued it in September 2024.

How much did the AirPods (2nd generation) cost?

The AirPods (2nd generation) launched at $159 in 2019 — about $196 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).

What are the AirPods (2nd generation)’s specs?

The AirPods (2nd generation) used a Apple H1, with None of memory. It ran Driver / firmware support.

Why does the AirPods (2nd generation) matter?

Added H1, hands-free Hey Siri and optional wireless charging case.

Full specifications

CPUApple H1
Cores
Memory (RAM)None
Storage
DisplayNone
GPUN/A
PortsLightning / wireless charging case option
WeightVaries by model
DimensionsIn-ear + charging case
Operating systemDriver / firmware support
ReleasedMarch 2019
DiscontinuedSeptember 2024
Launch price$159

How the AirPods (2nd generation) compares to today

Launched at $159 in 2019 — about $196 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).

Cross-architecture speed figures are clock-only and approximate; inflation figures use US CPI.

Did you know?

It is the kind of model collectors use to map Apple’s complicated family tree.

Related Audio models

Open the AirPods (2nd generation) in the interactive archive →

Last updated: 2026-06-27