Apple is Planning an AirPods Overhaul with AirPods Pro getting a possible redesign and new chip(s) in 2025
According to a new report this afternoon, Apple 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.
The changes will include a revamped version of Apple’s entry-level AirPods in 2024 and a new Pro model the following year, according to people familiar with the plan.
The company is updating the products’ earbud design, the look of the cases and audio quality. A new version of the AirPods Max headphones are coming in 2024 as well, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the information is private.
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 fourth-generation AirPods will also both switch to USB-C for their charging cases, continuing a shift that began with the AirPods Pro. The company dropped Lightning from its iPhones this year, part of an effort to comply with regulations from the European Union. And its accessories are following suit.
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.
Lastly, 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. For more, read the full Bloomberg report.
One feature that I would like to see come to Apple’s AirPods Max is allowing two people watching TV or streaming channel content together, be able to converse with each other about a show without having to remove the headphones.
Is there a feature that you’d like to see come to AirPods Max? Send in your comments/suggestions below or on our Twitter feed.
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