Tech Desk
Jul 20, 2024
Apple is preparing a big shakeup for this year. The updates in 2024 will be a complete overhaul of the entry-level Aipods lineup, while there were no significant revisions to the Airpods lineup in 2023.
Apple’s current AirPods lineup
Apple, the Cupertino-based tech giant, currently sells five different models of AirPods.
- AirPods (2nd generation) – $129
- AirPods (3rd generation) – $169 (with Lightning Charging Case) or $179 (with MagSafe Charging Case)
- AirPods Pro (2nd generation) – $249
- AirPods Max – $549
AirPods 4 are coming later this year
According to a report, Apple is planning to launch AirPods (4th generation) in 2024. Apple will discontinue AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 this year, and replace them with two different AirPods 4 variants.
The AirPods 4 models will purportedly feature a design that “looks like a blend” of AirPods 3 and Pro, including short stems. Neither of the AirPods 4 variants will feature replaceable tips like AirPods Pro, but they will “offer an enhanced fit.” According to Bloomberg, Apple is planning to distinguish the two AirPods 4 models in some different ways. The higher-end AirPods 4 will offer noise cancellation, while the lower-end model will not.
Both versions of AirPods 4 will include a new charging case that uses USB-C for charging. The charging case was added with the higher-end AirPods 4. However, it will also feature built-in speakers for enhanced Find My integration. The new AirPods 4 models are due for launch later in 2024. Normally, Apple has launched new Airpods around the same time as new iPhone in September.
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According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on a low-cost version of Airpods that will be launched in 2024. Kuo has indicated that the so-called “AirPods Lite” might be available at $99.
Moreover, Apple analyst Jeff Pu has also said that AirPods Lite is in the works. Whether Kuo and Pu are indicating the same lower-end version of AirPods 4, or a different product entirely, is unclear.
Will Apple AirPods 4 be a hit?
According to a report, Apple is planning a significant production ramp for AirPods 4. Apple suppliers will create between 20 and 25 million units of the new AirPods 4 models. This would make for the biggest AirPods release ever for Apple.
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AirPods 4 production is anticipated to kick off in May with Apple targeting a fall release, likely along with the iPhone 16.
What about AirPods Pro and AirPods Max?
Additionally, Apple will launch a new version of AirPods Max in 2024. Unfortunately, the only change here will be a switch from Lightning to USB-C for charging. Apple isn’t planning any other updates for AirPods Max this year.
AirPods Max will continue to use the same H1 chip used since 2020, which means they will continue to miss out on several modern AirPods features.
For AirPods Pro fans, rumours indicated that Apple is not planning an update until 2025. This revision will include a new design and chip, among other features. Those new features could include health-focused capabilities, like those related to hearing health.
