Over two years after Apple launched the second-gen AirPods in 2019, the iconic wireless earbuds are finally getting a successor with the just-announced AirPods 3. The rise of true wireless earbuds has been really fascinating to watch. Apple debuted the original AirPods in 2016, and almost immediately, the gadget was mocked for its odd design and high price. However, after seeing how incredibly popular AirPods were becoming, it didn't take long for all those mocking companies to quickly follow in Apple's footsteps.
In the case of AirPods, specifically, Apple's take on wireless earbuds hasn't changed that much. AirPods 2 added hands-free Siri access, better audio/voice quality, longer battery life, and faster device switching. All of those upgrades were great to see, but AirPods 2 did nothing to refresh the design. Especially here in 2021, AirPods are starting to look pretty outdated compared to a lot of the competition. Thankfully, with the launch of AirPods 3, Apple's delivered the hardware refresh a lot of folks have been looking forward to.
Alongside its M1X MacBook Pros, Apple also used its 'Unleashed' event to announce AirPods 3. Design-wise, AirPods 3 look like a mashup between AirPods 2 and AirPods Pro. The earbuds are much shorter and have a more rounded tip, and the charging case has been widened out a bit. Compared to AirPods Pro, the most noticeable difference is that AirPods 3 still uses the one-size-fits-all approach rather than offering customizable ear tips. It may not be the revolutionary design overhaul some fans were hoping for, but it's a solid improvement nonetheless.
Everything New With AirPods 3
Along with the new aesthetic, AirPods 3 have a few other upgrades as well. Once again similar to AirPods Pro, AirPods 3 also have pressure-sensitive touch areas for playback controls. Depending on the type of pressure someone applies to this area, different playback actions can be performed.
On the audio side of things, AirPods 3 have a few notable upgrades. Apple's touting improved drivers for enhanced playback across the board, an 'Adaptive EQ' feature to personalize audio for each user, and full support for Spatial Audio (something previously exclusive to AirPods Pro and AirPods Max). The whole battery experience is upgraded as well. Apple's promising up to six hours of continuous listening and an additional four full charges in the included case. The charging case for AirPods 3 now comes with Qi wireless charging by default, in addition to MagSafe support for the first time.
Tying all of this together is availability. AirPods 3 are available for pre-order right now for $179, with normal sales opening up next week. That's actually cheaper than the $199 price for AirPods 2 with the wireless charging case — something that doesn't often happen in the Apple world. For anyone who's been in the market for a new pair of AirPods, gen three looks like a pretty great upgrade.
Source: Apple