Legacy devices: Four Apple products that have passed their zenith
Apple tends to keep accessories in its range for a long time. Four examples, all from 2021 and earlier.
Old Apple products: None of these devices were released before 2021.
(Image: Apple)
People who buy Apple accessories often buy surprisingly old goods. This applies in particular to audio and display products. Users should consider how sensible it is to buy these – even if it is not possible to say when Apple will update them. Some of the hardware still has old connections, while others are simply outdated for the price. Four examples from the recent past.
AirPods Max: Waiting for USB-C
Apple launched the AirPods Max back in December 2020. After almost four years, they are still selling surprisingly well – as the company's only over-ear headphones –, but users have to live with old ANC technology, the lack of an H2 chip for new functions such as Adaptive Audio and a Lightning port instead of USB-C. There is currently speculation that Apple could present a second Max model this year that fulfills at least some of these wishes. Unfortunately, the rumor mill has been surprisingly quiet on this topic for several months.
HomePod mini: at least in a new color
Apple has been selling the HomePod mini since November 2020. The device actually delivers everything you would expect from a small smart speaker – but nothing more. Apple could, for example, tweak the sound again and add Apple Intelligence in the future. Most recently, the mini, which costs around 100 euros depending on the color version, was given a new coat of paint called "Midnight" to match the HomePod 2. The hardware remained the same.
AirPods 3: Lightning and strange shape
In contrast to the two other audio products described here, the AirPods 3 are almost new: they were released in October 2021. Of course, the charging case only comes with Lightning, there is personalized 3D audio, but no active noise cancellation (aka ANC). At least the earbuds are protected against sweat and dust. However, you should no longer buy them, as two modernized versions called AirPods 4 are supposedly coming on 9 September, one of which will allegedly have ANC.
Pro Display XDR: Expensive and old
The Pro Display XDR is a real luxury product in more ways than one. When it was launched in December 2019, almost five years ago, the 32-inch 6K screen was a minor sensation: thanks to integrated mini-LED technology, HDR and excellent color matching, professionals were delighted. However, this is no longer the case, as Apple could have overtaken the built-in technology long ago. Instead, the screen continues to be sold by the manufacturer for at least 5499 euros – without the "Pro Stand", of course, for which an additional 1099 euros are due. There have been no rumors about a new version of the Pro Display XDR for some time now.
Conclusion: Apple, please take action
Apple should actually take action on all four of the products mentioned here as soon as possible, but has prepared itself to continue selling scrap iron. For at least two products – AirPods 3 and AirPods Max – there are at least rumors that they could be replaced by new versions this year.
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