Apple is said to be working on revamping its AirPods lineup, with fourth-generation AirPods models set to replace the existing entry-level Apple earphones. The new models will reportedly represent the biggest AirPods launch to date and will come with several upgrades, including a new design and improved charging case. One of the two fourth-generation AirPods models will also reportedly get active noise cancellation (ANC), which was previously only available on the AirPods Pro models.
In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reiterated that Apple is preparing two new fourth-generation entry-level AirPods to replace the existing second- and third-generation models. The new models, codenamed B768(E) and B768(M) (E standing for “entry” and M representing “mid-tier”) will get a new design, improvements to their fit, and USB type. -C charging case. Additionally, Gurman said that the mid-tier AirPods will have ANC and Find My Speaker features to help users locate their missing earphones.
Gurman also said that Apple suppliers were preparing for the “biggest AirPods launch ever”, with foreign vendors about to begin production on the new line of truly wireless stereo (TWS) earphones. “The company plans to produce 20 million to 25 million units of the earbuds, which is more than previous new models,” he said in the newsletter. Production will reportedly begin in May at Goertech and Luxshare, with an official release planned for around September or October.
As previously reported, Apple will likely follow the fourth-generation AirPods with a new AirPods Pro model in 2025. The third-generation AirPods Pro are expected to come with a new earbud design, H3 chip, and active noise cancellation (ANC) improvements.
The Cupertino, California-based company is also set to bring an update to its wireless earphones line with the release of iOS 18. The AirPods Pro may get a hearing aid mode to help hearing-impaired users, along with a hearing-test feature.
Apple currently sells a pair of second-generation AirPods for Rs. 12,900 and the third generation model at Rs. 19,900. Apple refreshed the AirPods Pro model, which comes at Rs. At its ‘Wanderlust’ event in September last year, it added a USB Type-C port to the charging case for Rs 24,900.
