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Taiwanese publication DigiTimes provides its paying subscribers with a daily preview of stories that it plans to publish, and in today's edition, it continues to suggest that Apple is planning a new version of AirPods Pro.

The story preview reads as follows:
USI likely to enter supply chain of AirPods Pro, sources say
Taiwan-based Universal Scientific Industrial (USI), a unit of ASE Technology, is likely to obtain system-in-package (SiP) orders for the upcoming AirPods Pro, according to industry sources.
Presumably, these "upcoming" AirPods Pro are the same model as the "AirPods Pro Lite" that the publication referred to earlier this month.

AirPods-Pro.jpg

The earlier report claimed that "AirPods Pro Lite" will be an "entry-level version" of the AirPods Pro, but no features or specifications have been shared. The report added that production is unlikely to begin until at least the end of the second quarter of 2020 due to the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak in China.

All in all, details are slim right now. "AirPods Pro Lite" is somewhat of an oxymoron, as "Pro Lite" just sounds like regular AirPods, but it has been speculated that perhaps Apple will release a less expensive version of the AirPods Pro with the same design and sound quality but without noise cancellation.

Of course, it is worth noting that DigiTimes has a rather infamous reputation. While the industry publication has connections within Apple's supply chain, it has a mixed track record in relation to the company's exact plans and timing. For this reason, it is possible that the "AirPods Pro Lite" will simply be a third generation of regular AirPods or that the report is entirely inaccurate.

We'll update this post if there are any additional details shared in the full report, which should be published by tomorrow.

Article Link: DigiTimes Continues to Suggest New Version of AirPods Pro Are Forthcoming
 
Makes no sense to me. Much of the difference in sound quality comes from the Adaptive EQ that works in tandem with noise cancellation.

AirPods lineup looks perfect as it is now, barring a potential over-ear model that could sell well (but cannibalize Beats).
 
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Since lots of people don't like the tap control of the AirPods, and do like the smaller size, more comfortable fit and easier squeeze control of the AirPods Pro, it seems logical that the next version of the AirPods would simply be a cut down version of the AirPods Pro.

That's obviously the product that the supply-chain sources are talking about here.
 
I speculated it wouldn’t have noise cancellation. ;)

It’s really the only feature they can remove, and it has the benefit of improved battery life and sound quality.
 
The most noteworthy part of this story is that Digitimes actually has “paying subscribers.” That’s the most shocking news MacRumors will break this year!
 
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The name is obviously not correct, but I think there is a market for a version of AirPods with in-ear design.
I'd buy a pair of those, I don't care about the Qi compatible case and I can accept some other limitations (like no ANC) in order to buy them at a reduced price
 
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I don't see the point. Apple is huge so they'll probably sell regardless, I just don't see why there needs to be three versions of non-audiophile in-ear headphones. AirPods are great for most people, and AirPods Pro offer more to those who need it. I don't get how a third option slots in there, but time will tell.
 
If there is no noise cancelling then they're not a Pro device. Apple misnames many products now but it's be specious to call these Pro.
 
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I think it's just gonna be Airpods 3, which will replace original Airpods (no ANC) but with the shortened stems of the Pros. The original ones look super long now, in comparison. The rubber tips are nice too, I could never wear originals, they would fall out instantly, but the Pros fit and are delightful.
 
I think it's just gonna be Airpods 3, which will replace original Airpods (no ANC) but with the shortened stems of the Pros. The original ones look super long now, in comparison. The rubber tips are nice too, I could never wear originals, they would fall out instantly, but the Pros fit and are delightful.
This is a good call. A revision to the (now) standard product. Should reduce manufacturing costs too.
 
Since lots of people don't like the tap control of the AirPods, and do like the smaller size, more comfortable fit and easier squeeze control of the AirPods Pro, it seems logical that the next version of the AirPods would simply be a cut down version of the AirPods Pro.

That's obviously the product that the supply-chain sources are talking about here.

Ugh, I'd hate that if it was to be the case.

I think its nice now having the option between AirPods which sit in your ear and the AirPods Pro which actually are in ear and provide a seal when worn.

If the sealed in-ear design is the only option going forward (with the Pro version having ANC or other additional features) that would really suck.
 
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I hope the new cheaper version won't have the same design as the current Pro version. I would not want peasants to have something similar to what I own :D
 
I think it's just gonna be Airpods 3, which will replace original Airpods (no ANC) but with the shortened stems of the Pros. The original ones look super long now, in comparison. The rubber tips are nice too, I could never wear originals, they would fall out instantly, but the Pros fit and are delightful.
Those silicone tips are horrible, I hate the feeling of having something wedged in my ear. For me the normal Airpods are perfect.
They definitely won’t go down that route, they never did with any of the previous earphones.
 
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