Apple iPhone 16 is not alone: AirPods 4 allegedly on schedule
The iPhone 16 is apparently being joined by new AirPods - in two versions. The basic models of Apple's true wireless earbuds have long since become outdated.
The AirPods 2 are now pretty outdated - but still in Apple's lineup.
(Image: Aleksey H/Shutterstock.com)
Apple's next generation of AirPods is reportedly on schedule. According to a report, the manufacturer is preparing to launch a new entry-level and mid-range model of its true wireless earbuds. The announcement could be made in tandem with the launch of the iPhone 16, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max, which is expected in early September - possibly on the 10th of this month.
AirPods 4 with ANC and without
The AirPods 4 are set to replace the AirPods 2, which are now around 5 years old, as well as the AirPods 3 in one fell swoop, with Apple wanting to bring a function to these slightly cheaper models for the first time that was previously reserved for the AirPods Pro. The more expensive version of the AirPods 4 will support active noise cancellation (ANC) in future, as Mark Gurman explains in his Bloomberg newsletter. Both AirPods 4 variants will use the same design. What exactly they will look like remains to be seen.
Apple has been researching health sensors for the AirPods for some time, but has not yet implemented them. At the same time, the true wireless earbuds have long been used as a hearing aid, and the manufacturer has also added software functions in this area. With iOS 18, head gestures can also be performed for the first time, for example to accept or reject calls - this has only been announced for the AirPods Pro 2 so far. Recently, there was even speculation about the integration of a camera - albeit in the distant AirPods future.
More and more competition for AirPods
Apple's AirPods series has been quiet of late, with the focus obviously on the popular Pro series. AirPods 3 and AirPods 2 have long had considerable competition, most of which is also cheaper - including from Apple itself. Apple subsidiary Beats recently launched the Beats Solo Buds true wireless in-ears for less than 100 euros. Prices for the AirPods 4 are likely to remain in the €100 to €200 range.
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