Apple is reportedly planning to launch two new models of redesigned AirPods 4 in 2024 to boost sales and improve its users’ audio experience.
Apple AirPods 4 To Get Updated Design, Revamped Case & USB-C Charging
In his weekly Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg mentions that the two new non-Pro models of AirPods, tentatively dubbed the “fourth generation,” are likely to make their way in 2024, one being a cheaper model and the other being a more advanced model.
As earlier tipped by Gurman, with the launch of the upcoming fourth generation of AirPods, the Cupertino giant has plans to discontinue the AirPods 3 and the lower-priced AirPods 2 later next year, as there are minimal differences in their features.
The new AirPods models will feature somewhat updated designs, redesigned cases, and USB-C charging support and will come at two different price points. As per Gurman, the new models of AirPods will be more of a cross between the current-gen AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro and will likely come with a shorter stem and better sound quality.
Further, the higher-end version of the two models will include ANC (active noise cancellation), which is exclusively available only on the AirPods Pro and Max models. This variant is expected to offer users an immersive audio experience with ANC at a lower price range.
In addition, the redesigned AirPods 4 case will feature speakers to enable Find My alerts, making it easy to locate the earbuds if they are lost. Also, the company plans to depart from the current Lightning charging port and replace it with a USB Type-C port on the case.
There are no details on the pricing of AirPods 4 except that it may launch around September 2024, the same time Apple launches iPhone models. We expect this story to develop as and when we get more details on the upcoming AirPods 4.
Besides the AirPods 4, Apple has plans to refresh the AirPods Max model in 2024. However, it is unlikely to get any significant hardware or software upgrades and may get only new color options and a USB Type-C port. Further, the company is also working on an AirPods Pro design for 2025, which is “focused on comfort” and a faster chip.
Also, the tech giant plans to introduce hearing aid functionality into the AirPods through an upcoming software update scheduled for next year so that it can market as an over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid alternative.
