Apple has some changes in the pipeline for the AirPods range, but these aren't expected to materialize until next year at the earliest. The always reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reported that Apple is preparing a new generation of AirPods, which will include a new basic AirPods with a price target of $99 and an updated version of the AirPods Max.
Kuo is the second analyst in recent weeks to report on the possibility of so-called "Lite" AirPods, after Jeff Pu, as we already discussed on the blog at this post from January 3. These "Lite" AirPods would be a completely new product in the AirPods line. Kuo says Apple is targeting a price of around $99 (it would be around €100 in the European market) to compete with other third-party True Wireless earphones. Apple currently sells the AirPods 2 for €159, while the AirPods 3 start at €209.
In addition to the "Lite" AirPods, or whatever Apple ends up calling them, Kuo says that there's also an updated version of the AirPods Max on the way. It's unclear what exactly will be new, but this would represent the first update to the AirPods Max since their initial release in December 2020.
Most AirPods Max users expect Apple to focus on improve sound quality, perhaps with support for lossless playback, improve carry case (if it can be called a case) and update the design with new colors that invite an aesthetic change as well and not only by specifications. The improved battery life it also tops the wish list of many AirPods Max 2s.
Kuo claims that Apple intends to launch this "next generation" of AirPods during the second half of 2024. However, that timeframe could be pushed back to 2025. This means we shouldn't expect any major changes to the AirPods lineup until then.
Bloomberg reported a few days ago that Apple is directing most of its attention towards its next AR/VR headset, which could be announced in the coming months. Therefore, Products like the Apple Watch and AirPods aren't expected to get much attention this year.
Would you be interested in any of the new AirPods that could arrive in (still) a year? Do you think Apple should change course in the AirPods range or keep the current one guided by existing rumors? Leave it to us in comments!