Apple is rumored to be working on new versions of its popular wireless earbuds, AirPods and AirPods Pro. The tech giant is leaning into audio more than ever before, having announced a second smart speaker, the HomePod mini in October 2020. The latest report indicates both new AirPods and AirPods Pro will see some design changes, albeit not the same ones.
AirPods are one of the most popular wireless earbuds in the U.S., holding about one third of the market, though that is down from the high mark of over 50-percent last year, due to an increase in competition recently. It seems every major tech manufacturer is joining in with their own AirPods competitor. Apple released an updated version of AirPods and introduced AirPods Pro last year, so an announcement of new models in the coming months make sense.
The latest report comes from Bloomberg, and suggests the third-generation AirPods will be similar to the current AirPods Pro, but will not feature the advanced noise-cancellation that adds the most cost to the Pro model. Instead the new AirPods might have shorter stems and replaceable silicone ear tips. This would improve comfort and fit greatly, marking a nice update to the lower cost earbuds option from Apple.
AirPods Pro Updated Design
The report also shared details, from an unnamed source, about the second-generation AirPods Pro that may be coming soon. The new version of Apple’s top wireless earbuds is expected to have a refreshed design that includes removing the stems entirely. The new model is understood to have a rounded shape, similar to competing models from Samsung, Amazon and Google. This is supposedly the reason the new AirPods Pro has not already been announced. Apparently, Apple is having trouble fitting the advanced noise-cancelling, microphones, and wireless antennas into this smaller package. Additional details shared included a new wireless chip manufactured by Luxshare Precision Industry Co. and Goertek Inc.
Apple has been borrowing from top models to refresh the design and components of lower cost options in the last few years. For example, the iPad 8, iPhone SE, Apple Watch SE, and iPad Air 4 all reuse portions that powered more expensive versions in previous years. It’s a great business move to offer brand new devices that are more valuable to the shopper than older models, even if they use the same older tech. The advantage is better compatibility with newer apps and services than older Apple models can expect.
Source: Bloomberg