Apple AirPods 3 has been in the news for a long time now but nothing official has ever been revealed. Numerous leaks have surfaced only to make us excited even more. But this time, we have some information that might make the wait a little shorter.
Apple AirPods 3 Release Date
Based on information from sources familiar with Apple’s plans, DigiTimes says it’s likely that Apple will launch both the iPhone 13 and the AirPods 3 at an event in September. DigiTimes can usually be relied on when it comes to Apple predictions, though it doesn’t always get everything right. Along with this we have new information about the release date of AirPods from a reliable leakster.
This lines up neatly with rumors we heard earlier this week, which also floated the possibility of a joint launch for the AirPods 3 and the iPhone 13. Now that looks like more of a probability, and the idea would no doubt appeal to Apple executives.
Most of the rumors we’ve heard so far have pointed to an AirPods 3 launch in the second half of 2021, so September seems like a good bet at this point. Apple has also had hardware launches in October and November in the past though.
Apple AirPods 3 Specs(Rumoured)
While details remain unconfirmed, we’re seeing more leaks and reports from experts who believe Apple may make some significant improvements to its next-gen buds. The 52 Audio report, that included an apparent photo of the new buds, said that the AirPods 3 may get active noise cancellation to bring it more in line with the AirPods Pro. However, this contradicts The Elec’s earlier report that the AirPods 3 would not have ANC.
We’re a little more optimistic that the AirPods 3 will get noise cancellation, following the Beats Studio Buds offering ANC for just $149. Support for spatial audio with head-tracking is also up in the air, though, the AirPods 3 might have a way of playing lossless tracks wirelessly. As lossless formats aren’t compatible with Bluetooth or even the AirPods Max’s wired mode, no current AirPods model can play Apple Music’s recently-added lossless and Hi-Res content.
One rumor has suggested Apple is looking into adding AirPlay connectivity to existing AirPods via software update, something that would enable lossless playback over Wi-Fi, though that would be impossible unless those AirPods have been hiding Wi-Fi connectivity hardware all this time.
It seems more likely that Apple might design the AirPods 3 to be capable of lossless playback from launch, either via AirPlay or a new wireless protocol that plays nice with Apple’s lossless ALAC format.
Apple AirPods 3 Price(Rumoured)
In terms of price, if it was any other company, it could be possible that the AirPods 3 would seek to target the $99/£99 market, which seems to be becoming the key battleground for true wireless earphones. But Apple tends not to worry too much about price point so it’s more likely they will come in at around $150/£150.
