Apple is preparing for its “largest AirPods release ever,” with fourth-generation models expected to debut later this year, according to a report.
It is anticipated that the fourth-generation AirPods, positioned as “mid-tier,” will feature active noise cancellation.
Reports suggest that Apple is in the process of overhauling its AirPods range, intending to introduce fourth generation AirPods models to replace the current entry-level Apple earphones. These new models are expected to mark Apple’s largest AirPods launch to date and will include numerous enhancements, such as a redesigned appearance and upgrades to the charging case. Additionally, one of the two fourth generation AirPods models is rumored to feature active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature previously exclusive to AirPods Pro models.
In his most recent Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reiterated that Apple is preparing to launch two new fourth-generation entry-level AirPods, intended to replace the current second and third-generation models. These new models, known by the codenames B768(E) and B768(M) (where “E” represents “entry” and “M” stands for “mid-tier”), will feature a redesigned appearance, improvements in fit, and USB Type-C charging cases. Additionally, Gurman mentioned that the mid-tier AirPods will include active noise cancellation (ANC) and a Find My speakers feature in the case to assist users in locating their misplaced earphones.
Gurman also mentioned that Apple suppliers are preparing for the “largest AirPods launch ever,” with international vendors poised to commence production on the upcoming line of truly wireless stereo (TWS) earphones. “The company aims to manufacture 20 million to 25 million units of the earbuds, marking an increase compared to previous new models,” he stated in the newsletter. Production is expected to kick off in May at GoerTek and Luxshare, with an official release targeted for around September or October.
As previously reported, Apple is expected to follow up the fourth-generation AirPods with a new AirPods Pro model in 2025. The upcoming third-generation AirPods Pro is anticipated to feature a redesigned earbud, an H3 chip, and improvements to Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
Furthermore, the Cupertino-based company plans to introduce updates to its wireless earphones lineup with the launch of iOS 18. Among the rumored enhancements, AirPods Pro may receive a hearing aid mode aimed at assisting users with hearing impairments, along with a feature for conducting hearing tests.
Currently, Apple offers the second-generation AirPods priced at Rs. 12,900 and the third-generation model priced at Rs. 19,900. The AirPods Pro, priced at Rs. 24,900, received a refresh at the ‘Wonderlust’ event in September last year, which included the addition of a USB Type-C port to the charging case.
