With just days left until Apple’s biggest annual event in September, rumors are swirling surrounding the iPhone 16 and other potential launches.
If you’re in the market for a new pair of AirPods, you’ll soon have more options. According to a new report, Apple plans to release two different models in the new AirPods 4 series, which may be released at an Apple event on September 9.
These new AirPods models look more like Apple’s premium wireless headphones, the AirPods Pro, and come packed with new features. One model reportedly even comes with a charging case with built-in speakers.
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this New AirPods Report It’s a bit different than some of the other rumors because it comes from a source with a proven track record: BurundiApple insider Mark Gurman.
Two new AirPods 4 models are coming soon
The first thing to clarify is that this product launch will launch new mid-range AirPods, because the higher-priced AirPods cannot replace the higher-end AirPods Pro.
Apple is still selling the older second-generation AirPods as entry-level wireless headphones. The current generation AirPods 3 is a mid-range device. With AirPods 4, Apple seems to be hoping to formalize the two levels in the AirPods series and launch two new products to replace AirPods 2 and AirPods 3.
Mix and match speed of light
According to Gurman, both AirPods 4 models have been redesigned to look more like AirPods Pro. For example, the new AirPods 4 should have a much shorter stem than the current-generation AirPods, just like the AirPods Pro. Gurman said AirPods 4 also has improved audio quality and a new charging case. Both AirPods 4 models will eliminate the Lightning cable and be equipped with USB-C charging capabilities.
Speaking of charging, Gurman said Apple recently discovered a software bug that was responsible for the AirPods battery life issue. According to reports, Apple has fixed the problem in time before the release of AirPods 4.
So, what are the differences between the two upcoming AirPods 4 models? Gurman reports that the high-end AirPods 4 (mid-range AirPods when counting AirPods Pro) will come with a premium charging case with built-in speakers. The speaker is intended to make it easier for users to find their AirPods via Apple’s “Find My” feature, but it’s unclear if the speaker has other uses.
Gurman said the mid-range AirPods 4 will also come with noise cancellation capabilities comparable to the AirPods Pro, a feature that the entry-level model lacks.
Future AirPods updates
According to Gurman, there is also a new AirPods feature in the works, although it may not be released in time for Apple’s event. Apple has reportedly been working on a hearing health feature code-named Yodel, which would make AirPods a replacement for hearing aids. Yodel will also have a hearing test feature.
As for any new updates to AirPods Pro or even AirPods Max headphones, Gurman said not to have any expectations for this year’s Apple conference.
New AirPods Pro are expected to be launched next year with a new design and better noise cancellation. An AirPods Max update with new colors and USB-C charging is also expected to launch later.