Apple is gearing up to launch its new line of AirPods this September, coinciding with the highly anticipated release of the iPhone 16 series. Reports indicate the company will introduce two variants of the AirPods 4, which will replace the older AirPods 2 and 3 models.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the mid-level AirPods 4 will feature active noise cancellation (ANC), setting it apart from the entry-level model, which won’t have this feature. This approach aims to cater to different consumer needs and preferences.
The previous AirPods 2 were launched back in 2019 and lacked many of the features common to modern headphones like wireless charging and spatial audio. Comparatively, the AirPods 3, priced at ₹20,900, introduced features like spatial audio and improved battery life.
Now, Gurman suggests the new AirPods 4 will have designs similar to their predecessors but will inherently come upgraded. Both models are expected to feature USB-C ports, complying with new regulations enacted by the European Union.
The transition from Lightning to USB-C will help Apple streamline its products and avoid regulatory issues going forward. This upgrade not only modernizes the AirPods but also prepares them for future compatibility.
Consumers can expect enhanced audio features across the spectrum, as even the base model could see improvements previously reserved for the Pro versions. Speculations indicate the higher-priced model might include new features like improved noise isolation and wireless charging capabilities.
While Gurman hasn’t hinted at specific prices for the upcoming AirPods 4, considering they are intended to replace older models, existing prices give some insight. AirPods 2 are currently priced at ₹12,900, which might reflect the price range of the new entry-level model.
To complement the new hardware, Apple is rolling out updates for existing AirPods, enhancing features such as head gesture controls. This might bring about additional functionalities for users who already own AirPods, making the experience even richer.
Many consumers eagerly await the launch event, which will heavily feature the iPhone 16 alongside these promised AirPods. This launching strategy indicates Apple's commitment to not only refresh its hardware offerings but also to simplify the choices available for its customers.
Whether the AirPods Pro will see updates alongside this launch remains to be seen, as the current model has just been through some adjustments. Nevertheless, the iPhone launch is expected to shed light on all upcoming products.
