Although the AirPods Pro 2 resemble the first generation of Pro earbuds, there are some differences. Those differences are mainly under the hood, making the Pro 2 sound better than its predecessor. But now we see that there is also a distinct difference on the outside between the two iterations of the earbuds.
That difference relates to the tips that disappear into your ears. It’s the silicone tips, available in sizes XS, S, M and L, that make sure the Pro 2 tips stay in place while listening. You can’t use those new tips on the iPhone maker’s first Pro model.
AirPods Pro 2 has its own tips
Apple explains why in a recently published support document. The original model features tips that have a “noticeably thicker mesh” compared to the AirPods Pro 2’s tips. The company does not provide further details on this; but it may be that those tips affect acoustics.
Therefore, Apple does not recommend users to use the old tips thus on the new model. As a result, one could speak of an official incompatibility. But physically it is just possible to use the old tips, should you necessarily want to. Whether it is then desirable is another matter.
New options
In addition to other tips, the AirPods Pro 2 of course features more new options. For example, it is now possible to control the volume via the earbuds, by swiping up or down on the stem. In addition, Spatial Audio gets an upgrade: it can now take into account the shape of your head and ears.
Furthermore, the Pro 2 takes longer to drain its battery. Each earbud lasts up to about six hours. And when you charge them in between via the included case, you get a total listening time of 36 hours. That’s six hours longer than the first generation.
