Apple is Preparing Two New AirPods Models': Gurman's Biggest Prediction Yet

Ahead of the "It's Glowtime" iPhone 16 event scheduled for Monday, September 9 (10am PT/1pm ET/6pm BST or 3am September 10 AEST), Bloomberg's Mark Gurman offers his clearest indication yet that Apple is set to release two new AirPods models, while also confirming that two other sets won't be launched. Although it's not concrete evidence, many trust Gurman given his strong Apple track record.

Gurman's predictions suggest that Apple is planning to replace the entry-level AirPods 2019 model and the mid-tier, third-generation AirPods 3 with the new versions. Both new sets will likely resemble the AirPods Pro (though it is unclear if this refers to the original Pros from 2019 or the AirPods Pro 2), and will feature USB-C charging, improved audio quality, and a new case.

To differentiate between these models, the mid-tier variant is expected to come with a more premium case that includes a speaker, enhancing its compatibility with Apple's Find My feature and adding noise cancellation capabilities similar to the AirPods Pro.

A significant new focus will be on hearing health. Apple aims to make AirPods serve as a hearing aid alternative and a device for conducting hearing tests. These features, codenamed Yodel, have faced delays and may not be available immediately.

An updated AirPods Pro version featuring a revamped design and enhanced ANC is "in the works" according to Gurman, but it's only slated for as early next year. On a similar note, updated AirPods Max headphones are expected to incorporate new colors and a USB-C connector in line with EU regulations, but with current inventories still available, these too are predicted to be released later.

Gurman further notes about a recently resolved bug that affected AirPods’ battery life due to software malfunctions. The rollout of this fix occurred before shipment to factories. The AirPods Pro 2 is also expected to get an update for gesture support tied to the full iOS 18 launch, with a potential release date announcement on Monday.

Even though the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max 2 launches are postponed, Gurman's predictions indicate the largest AirPods unveiling to date is still likely. It has been over two years since the release of the AirPods 3, making the introduction of new models awelcomed development.

Regarding pricing, while specifics are unknown, the mid-tier option could be aligned with the current AirPods 3 pricing, around $179 / £169 / AU$279. An entry-level price akin to the popular Nothing Ear (1) pegged at about $99 / £99 / AU$149 would be appealing but remains speculative.

This summary condenses Gurman’s insights into a cohesive overview, maintaining the emphasis on clarity, precision, and relevance based on the given guidelines.

Earlier, SSP wrote about iPhone 16 Pro's new 'desert titanium' gold color.