While Apple has kept its AirPods lineup unchanged so far in 2023, whispers suggest a monumental overhaul is imminent, with significant updates expected later this year. Updates in 2024 will revolve around a comprehensive transformation of the entry-level AirPods range. This is everything we currently know so far.
Apple’s present AirPods lineup
Apple currently offers a diverse range of five distinct AirPods models.
AirPods 4 are reportedly on track to launch later this year.
Mark Gurman claims to have insight into Apple’s plans to release the fourth generation of AirPods in 2024. According to Gurman, Apple is expected to discontinue AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 later this year, replacing them with two new AirPods 4 models.
Reports suggest the AirPods 4 will feature a design blending elements of both AirPods 3 and Pro, characterized by short stems. While neither AirPods 4 variant will fully replicate the features of AirPods Pro, they will still offer a notable upgrade.
What about options? Apple plans to differentiate the two AirPods 4 designs through distinct features and styles. The high-end AirPods Pro will feature active noise cancellation, while the lower-end model will not offer this advanced technology.
AirPods 4 models will feature a redesigned charging case that ditches the Lightning port for a more modern USB-C charging solution. While the charging case bundled with the premium AirPods 4 edition does offer enhanced Discover My functionality, it also features integrated speakers for upgraded performance. According to reports, Apple is poised to unveil four brand-new AirPods designs later in 2024. Typically, Apple introduces new AirPods around the same timeframe as new iPhone releases in September.
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a renowned Apple analyst, the tech giant is reportedly developing a budget-friendly version of AirPods, dubbed “AirPods Lite,” which is expected to retail at a competitive price point of $99. Analyst Jeff Pu further notes that AirPods Lite are likely to be a more affordable and compact alternative.
Whether Kuo and Pu are referencing an identical lower-end model of AirPods 4 or a distinct product altogether remains ambiguous.
Apple anticipates AirPods 4 to generate significant revenue.
Apple is reportedly planning a substantial production surge for its highly anticipated AirPods 4. It is reported that Apple’s suppliers are expected to manufacture between 20 million and 25 million units of the latest AirPods 4 models. Will this potentially monumental AirPods release surpass all previous launches in size and scope?
Apple’s production of AirPods 4 is expected to commence in May, with a focus on a fall release that may coincide with the launch of the iPhone 16.
Which products to choose: AirPods Pro or AirPods Max?
Additionally in 2024, Apple is expected to release. Unfortunately, the transition from Lightning to USB-C for charging is an inevitable and long-overdue update. Apple isn’t planning any significant upgrades to its AirPods Max lineup this year. AirPods Max will leverage the same H1 chip first introduced in 2020, thereby extending its use across various premium AirPods models.
It’s rumored that Apple has no plans to release a successor to the AirPods Pro until at least 2025. This revised version will introduce a bold new design and a cutting-edge chip, accompanied by additional innovative features. These innovative options might incorporate health-oriented features reminiscent of those already available.
Wrap up
As revealed, the forthcoming AirPods roadmap encompasses:
- By the end of 2024, Apple will reportedly phase out its older wireless earbuds, discontinuing both AirPods 2 and AirPods 3. Instead, users can look forward to two new AirPods 4 models with distinct styles?
- By late 2024: Apple plans to update the AirPods Max wireless headphones to transition from using a Lightning port for charging to the newer and more widely adopted USB-C standard.
- By the end of 2025, Apple is expected to unveil a revamped AirPods Pro featuring an enhanced design, a cutting-edge chip, and innovative wellness features.
Will you be considering a fresh pair of Apple AirPods within the next year’s timeframe? The struggles will continue until morale improves?
: , , , and .
