According to Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter, Apple is on track to release two new variants of the AirPods 4 as early as next month. They will introduce both an entry-level model and a mid-range model that will replace both the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3.
Apple’s current AirPods range
Apple has been selling AirPods 2 as an entry-level option since early 2019. AirPods 2 still use the traditional AirPods design and often sell for under $90, making them an extremely affordable option for those new to the world of wireless headphones. They lack any modern AirPods features, though they still serve as basic wireless headphones for use with your iPhone.
AirPods 3 have been available since October 2021 and feature a number of upgrades including Spatial Audio, a new pressure sensor on the stems, charging the Apple Watch through the case, and general sound improvements. This was an interesting upgrade, as they launched at a higher price of $179 and Apple continued to officially sell AirPods 2 for $129 after the launch of AirPods 3.
What’s next for AirPods
According to Gurman, the AirPods 4 will replace both models, with an entry-level variant replacing the AirPods 2 and a mid-range model replacing the AirPods 3. Both will have a similar design, with one key difference: active noise cancellation.
Gurman states that the mid-range version of the AirPods 4 will feature active noise cancellation, while the entry-level AirPods will not. It’s also worth noting that these mid-range AirPods 4 are not to be confused with the AirPods Pro 3, which he says will only receive an update later. Beyond that, Gurman doesn’t provide many details.
Both versions of the AirPods 4 will most likely switch to USB-C. I imagine the entry-level version of the AirPods 4 will not have any form of wireless charging, while the mid-range model will support it. Apple followed this strategy with both the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3, so I imagine they will continue it with the new AirPods.
I’m also curious to see how Apple will brand these new AirPods. Surely they will have something better than “AirPods 4” and “even better AirPods 4.” Maybe it will be AirPods Lite and AirPods 4. Either way, it shouldn’t be long before we find out.
Are you excited about these new AirPods models? Personally, I think I’ll stick with my AirPods Pro 2. Let us know what you think in the comments.
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