Apple has refrained from refreshing its AirPods lineup for an extended period, with the last update being the AirPods 3rd Gen, introduced in October 2021. Speculation is now circulating about the potential launch of the AirPods 4th Gen in 2024, accompanied by substantial upgrades. A recent report suggests that there might even be two versions of the upcoming AirPods, introducing significant changes to the popular wireless earbuds.
Key Details about AirPods 4th Gen
According to insights shared by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is gearing up to unveil two models as part of the AirPods 4th gen series in the upcoming year. The new AirPods are anticipated to showcase updated designs, redesigned cases, and USB-C charging capabilities.
The more premium variant is expected to feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), marking a significant addition to the non-Pro series of AirPods. Gurman’s track record adds credibility to these reports, suggesting that Apple is likely to refresh its non-Pro AirPods after a hiatus of over two years. Despite the competitive edge provided by the AirPods Pro, Apple aims to enhance the regular AirPods series with these anticipated improvements.
Accompanying the AirPods 4th generation, there are speculations about an updated version of the AirPods Max. Apple initially introduced its first over-ear headphones in 2020, and the company is reportedly planning a revival in the coming year. While details are scarce, the rumored upgrades for the next-gen AirPods Max include USB-C compatibility and new color options. No specific information about additional software or hardware features has surfaced so far.
Looking ahead, the report indicates that the AirPods Pro lineup is slated for an update in 2025. While the design remains undecided, Apple is purportedly prioritizing comfort this time. Potential features for the next-gen AirPods Pro could include body-temperature measurement and health tracking, showcasing Apple’s commitment to integrating advanced functionalities into its wearables.
In parallel, a new iteration of the Apple Watch is in development, featuring advanced health capabilities like hypertension and sleep apnea detection. This upcoming Apple Watch is anticipated to alert users to potential health issues, providing an early warning system. The release of the new Apple Watch is likely to coincide with the launch of the iPhone 16 series next year, offering users a comprehensive suite of upgraded devices.