Gurman: AirPods 4 Still Launching This Year in Two Variants

[MacRumors]

Apple still plans to refresh its entry-level and mid-tier AirPods later this year, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

Writing in his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman reiterated his previous reporting by saying that Apple intends to release two versions at different price points, replacing the current second-generation and third-generation models.

Both models will feature a redesigned look, including a USB-C port instead of a Lightning port, shorter stems similar to the AirPods Pro, along with an updated fit and enhanced audio quality.

The higher-end version is expected to include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), making ANC available at a lower price point for the first time and no longer exclusive to AirPods Pro.

Gurman said Apple intends to launch a third-generation AirPods Pro "later," by which he likely means next year, based on previous reporting.

• AirPods Lineup to Get These Updates in 2024

What Gurman did not mention in his latest update is the status of new AirPods Max. It's been almost four years since Apple introduced its premium over-ear headphones. You can learn more about everything we know about the second-generation model we're expecting – and when – in our recent AirPods rumor roundup.

Article Link: Gurman: AirPods 4 Still Launching This Year in Two Variants

 

[FSMBP]

In 2024, just release one sku of normal AirPods...This multi-sku (which is really upselling) makes the brand feel less appealing.

AirPods already have multiple tiers (regular, pro, Max). Simple is better!

 

[orbital~debris]

AirPods Max still need that long-rumoured update…

 

[Carrotstick]

Apple has too much bloat now

 

[contacos]

Apple has too much bloat now

They keep coming up with new "base" products because they don't want to sell last years model on a discount when the new version is being released. By introducing a new "base" model along with the "better base model" they can continue to charge the current price along with the more expensive version. It is quite brilliant from their point of view.

 

[Kylo83]

So what would be the point of the pros if the cheaper ones have anc

 

[UltimaKilo]

This is really the update I have been waiting for. Almost picked up a new pair of AirPods 3 yesterday after mine stopped worked properly a while back, but holding out for AirPods 4. Purchased a cheaper pair on Black Friday to hold me over anyway.

 

[CarAnalogy]

I wouldn't think the ANC would work as well without physically plugging your ears the way the Pros do. I know it's a divisive thing, I didn't like having my ears plugged at first either, but it does help if you can stand it.

 

[CarAnalogy]

So what would be the point of the pros if the cheaper ones have anc

They probably still won't have all the more advanced features of the Pros like adaptive audio and such. I could see it being a simple off or on. Like I said above, if they still sit in the ear rather than plugging it, the ANC would be limited in its effectiveness anyway, I would think.

 

[metalsiren]

AirPods Max still need that long-rumoured update…

yep and hope its not just colors and USB C, needs updated chip as well.

 

[TwoBytes]

I'd love an airpods pro update. Take my money whatever the update!

 

[dannyyankou]

They keep coming up with new "base" products because they don't want to sell last years model on a discount when the new version is being released. By introducing a new "base" model along with the "better base model" they can continue to charge the current price along with the more expensive version. It is quite brilliant from their point of view.

That isn’t true though. They dropped the price of the 2nd gen AirPods. And you can find them in stores for a lot cheaper, $80

 

[ThunderSkunk]

Yea that's real neat but are they still short lifespan disposables or are they finally going to get replaceable batteries?

 

[JosephAW]

As long as they keep selling AirPods without silicon tips I’m fine with that.

 

[WarmWinterHat]

I wouldn't think the ANC would work as well without physically plugging your ears the way the Pros do. I know it's a divisive thing, I didn't like having my ears plugged at first either, but it does help if you can stand it.

I like having my ears plugged when flying for ANC reasons, but absolutely detest it when running and working out. The regular might be the next set for me.

I should just get a big pair of ear covering headphones for travel. I'm usually reading and don't even listen to anything; I just don't want to hear the engine roar.

 

[klasma]

“Still launching?” They haven’t started launching yet.

 

[klasma]

In 2024, just release one sku of normal AirPods...This multi-sku (which is really upselling) makes the brand feel less appealing.

Different SKUs for different ear shapes would be fine.

 

[Arnold Ziffel]

I've tried all of the wireless AirPods (not the Max though), and I found them far too easy to lose and not reliable and dependable enough. In the middle of sessions with clients, the Bluetooth connection drops or switches to another device. That is beyond frustrating. So, I went back to good ol' wired EarPods, which are much easier to keep up with, require no charging, and I can replace them for a reasonable amount of dough, and I can count on them to work 100% of the time.

 

[davidec]

In 2024, just release one sku of normal AirPods...This multi-sku (which is really upselling) makes the brand feel less appealing.

AirPods already have multiple tiers (regular, pro, Max). Simple is better!

too many skus indeed. I think its more disconnect from the user which I guess does make the brand less appealing.

 

[alexandr]

I'd love an airpods pro update. Take my money whatever the update!

Ok, I'm putting you down for 3 pairs.

 

[icanhazmac]

As much as I like them I will never buy them again until the batteries can be replaced. Sticking with my old ones that only last 10-15 minutes now or wired.

 

[Egregius]

What's the point of ANC if it sucks anyway? My Sennheisers were a lot better in that.

 

[FSMBP]

Different SKUs for different ear shapes would be fine.

Unrelated but your avatar is amazing hah

 

[jntdroid]

I know I'm weird but I still prefer the simplicity of the OG AirPods. I still use my 2nd Gen's (though they're struggling a bit). I know the sound isn't as good as the 3rd gen's or Pro's, but the tapping vs pinching, to me at least, is still superior and I wish they had added more flexibility with that.

 

[Dorv]

AirPods Max still need that long-rumoured update…

I really thought it was coming last year.

Mainly because I finally pulled the trigger last year and got a pair, and that's how these things always seem to work out.