Apple's Next-Generation AirPods And AirPods Pro Rumored For Early 2021 Debut
According to Mark Gurman, Apple is working on third-generation AirPods, which are expected to adopt a similar design to the current-generation AirPods Pro. This means that the cylindrical "stems" that attach to the actual "buds" will be smaller this time around and battery life will be boosted compared to the current models. They'll also be equipped with flexible silicon ear tips, which should make it easier for users to achieve a more comfortable in-ear fit (fit problems are one of the main complaints with the first- and second-generation AirPods). And while the design might mirror that of the AirPods Pro, the third-generation AirPods will miss out on advanced features like active noise cancelation to hold the line on pricing.
As for the second-generation AirPods Pro, Apple is reportedly looking for a more radical redesign. The design is allegedly more compact, and will completely get rid of the touch-sensitive stems. This would make them more in keeping with wireless earbuds from Samsung (Galaxy Buds Live) and Google (Pixel Buds). However, according to Gurman, "integrating noise-cancellation, wireless antennas and microphones into a smaller AirPods Pro casing has proved challenging during development."
Both the new AirPods and AirPods Pro are now rumored to launch in early 2021. The over-the-ear AirPods Studio that have long been rumbling in the rumor mill and are still on track for release. The AirPods Studio are said to include touchpads on either side, can tell which way they're oriented (there's no dedicated left or right earpiece), and the ear pads are interchangeable. Unfortunately, there was no timetable given for the AirPods Pro.
Finally, Gurman says that Apple is reportedly internally weighing introducing a third HomePod model that could fit in between the $99 HomePod mini and the $299 HomePod. Frankly, it seems like it would be wiser to introduce a revamped HomePod with an updated SoC and price it at $199 (the usual sale price for the current HomePod) rather than introduce yet another model, but it appears that Apple seems content with this current plan.
