Apple Inc. is planning an end-to-end overhaul of its AirPods lineup, refreshing a product category that’s emerged as one of the company’s biggest sellers.
  • throwmeaway1784@alien.topOPBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    Standard AirPods:

    Apple plans to phase out both the second-generation and third-generation AirPods later next year, according to the people familiar with the matter. They’ll be replaced with two fourth-generation AirPods that are priced similarly to the current versions but are more differentiated.

    The two models will feature a new design that looks like a blend of the third-generation AirPods and the Pro model. They’ll both have short stems, the part that hangs out of a user’s ear.

    Apple will differentiate the two options by including noise cancellation in the higher-end version. That model will also get an updated charging case that includes speakers for Find My alerts, matching the current AirPods Pro. Those alerts make it easier for users to find their case when it gets lost.

    Both new low-end models will offer an improved fit, but it’s unlikely that either will include replaceable tips like the AirPods Pro.

    The fourth-generation AirPods will also both switch to USB-C for their charging cases.

    AirPods Max:

    Apple is planning an update to the AirPods Max around the end of next year that also switches its charging port to USB-C. The headphones will come in new colors, but won’t see many other changes.

    AirPods Pro:

    The AirPods Pro, meanwhile, are expected to get a new design and chip in 2025, and the company is working on health features for that device tied to hearing.

    • Anonymous_linux@alien.topBEnglish
      1·
      1 year ago

      Uh what? Full year until Apple finally replaces obsolete lightning with USB-C on their flagship headphones? Guess I’ll stop waiting and just grab Sony XMs.

        • Anonymous_linux@alien.topBEnglish
          1·
          1 year ago

          Yes. I dont want to keep searching for that one lightning cable when literally every other device in my home uses USB-C.

    • CanaryRich@alien.topBEnglish
      1·
      1 year ago

      Man I was hoping for a new AirPods Pro Gen next year so I can have an excuse for an upgrade, but I guess I’ll hold off until then.

  • ezidro3@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    I’m one of the few that can’t wear either AirPods 3 or AirPods Pro for a couple minutes before they start hurting my left ear, and that’s why I’ve stuck with my AirPods 2 since 2019. Hopefully these 4th gen ones are closer to those

  • K_Click_D@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    I’ll be upgrading to the noise cancellation AirPods 4th gen I think. Looking forward to these. I’ve had AirPods 2, and currently have AirPods 3 since launch.

  • landdon@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    I’ve never had air pod before and I just got time new ones and the noise cancelation is insane! I just enjoy having them in with nothing playing. Pretty awesome tech

  • Ravello@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    I really hope they don’t change the design of the bud. I can’t use the Pros as I can’t really press anything into my ear. The AirPods have always been amazing and the only wireless headphones I can find that can wear.

  • ThatOneOutlier@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    I honestly just want the form factor of the AirPods Pro but cheaper. I don’t really need noise canceling and every other AirPod hurts my ear. I broke my old ones (because I’m a clutz) and can’t justify buying it again